F1 had a Tuesday with total focus on the Austrian Grand Prix, but also with important FIA decisions and behind-the-scenes technical movements. Ferrari, Audi, Red Bull and Gabriel Bortoleto were among the day’s main topics.
The FIA confirmed changes to Formula 1 regulations for 2026 and advanced the framework of the 2027 rules. Among the approved points are the possibility to declare extreme-heat risk separately for the Sprint and the Grand Prix, adjustments in low-grip conditions, and changes in the power distribution of the power units, with a 60% share for the internal combustion engine and 40% for the battery until 2028.
On the track, Bortoleto arrives at the Austrian GP determined to turn performance into points. The Brazilian Audi driver acknowledged that he let opportunities slip away recently, but highlighted that the team’s performance allows him to aim for the top 10 again. The Red Bull Ring also brings good memories, as it’s where he scored his first points in F1.
The Ferrari could debut a new power unit as early as this weekend, after meeting the ADUO system requirements. The package could yield an estimated gain of four to five horsepower, in addition to a possible extra benefit from Shell’s fuel. Audi, for its part, had already introduced an updated engine in Barcelona, soon after the disclosure of the additional development mechanism.
Red Bull treats the Austrian stage as a decisive test to convince Max Verstappen that he can still rejoin the fight for the front positions. The Dutchman has a contract until 2028, but oust clauses remain at the center of speculation as the team prepares important updates for the RB22.
The Austrian TL1 will also feature newcomers, with Ryo Hirakawa at Haas, Jak Crawford at Aston Martin, Paul Aron at Audi and Luke Browning at Williams. Behind the scenes at Red Bull Racing, Nikola Tsolov emerges as a strong name for a possible promotion in 2027, amid the strong phase of Red Bull’s junior program.
