F1 Commission Approves Extra 2027 Testing as 60/40 Engine Debate Remains Unresolved

The F1 Commission met on Tuesday in London, with agreements reached on increasing winter testing days and revising TPC regulations for the 2027 season.

Chaired by F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and FIA Single-Seater Director Nikolas Tombazis, the meeting resulted in the approval of a fourth day of pre-season testing for next year, alongside minor aerodynamic and bodywork changes to the cars.

Changes to TPC (Testing of Previous Cars) regulations will also restrict teams from scheduling tests at circuits that are due to host an upcoming grand prix. The move is designed to prevent teams from exploiting track time for purposes beyond giving young drivers additional mileage.

Notably absent from the meeting outcomes was any discussion regarding Formula 1’s future power-unit direction. Ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, it was announced that there was an “in principle” agreement to move to a 60/40 split between internal combustion engine power and electrical energy from 2027.

The new-for-2026 50/50 split has proven divisive, with concerns over cars bottoming out and drivers needing to “superclip” on full throttle to recharge the battery. The result has been drivers unable to push flat out throughout qualifying laps, while significant speed differentials during races have created the perception of overtaking opportunities.

Any move to a 60/40 split raises several challenges, including potential chassis modifications and changes to fuel-flow regulations. One solution reportedly under consideration for 2027 is shortening race distances, allowing teams to carry over their current chassis concepts with minimal redesign.

A supermajority vote of four manufacturers in favour will be required from Formula 1’s six OEMs for the changes to be implemented. So far, only Mercedes and RBPT-Ford are believed to support the proposal.

Ferrari is reportedly opposed, having focused heavily on its ADUO (Additional Development and Update Opportunities) programme to close the gap under the existing regulations. Meanwhile, Audi and Honda are understood to be wary of the additional investment required to adapt to another significant rule change.

Although Cadillac and General Motors will not have their own power unit in Formula 1 until a later date, they still hold a seat at the table. It is widely expected that they would align with their current engine supplier, Ferrari, in any future vote.

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Written by

Jawad Yaqub

An eCommerce Specialist by day and reporting on F1 by night. Jawad is passionate about motorsport, having provided accredited F1 coverage for more than a decade and is a member of the AIPS (International Sports Press Association). Live blogging (almost) every grand prix too since 2014, as well as articles on the Supercars Championship. Also keen on sustainability, photography, collecting vinyl, (trying to) expertly barbeque and learning to Dad.

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