Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has warned that his team could be in serious trouble if the FIA and Formula 1 decide to change the rules in the ongoing engine dispute before the 2026 season starts. The controversy centers on Mercedes’ new power unit and how its compression ratio is tested — rivals argue the current method lets Mercedes run a higher ratio on track than the regulations intend, and they want the FIA to adjust how checks are done.
Wolff insists Mercedes’ engine is fully legal under the current rules and says the team has kept the FIA closely involved throughout development. But he admits he’s now unsure why the issue has suddenly become a big topic and says Mercedes would be “screwed” if most of the championship’s decision‑makers agree with rivals on a rules change.
He also ruled out any legal action if the rules are changed and stressed that in Formula 1 teams must respect the sport’s governance. The final decision on possible changes will involve the FIA, Formula 1’s commercial rights holder, and enough engine manufacturers to form a supermajority.