Honda Backs FIA's Revised Power Unit Splits for 2027 and 2028

The FIA has pivoted on its planned power output distribution for the next generation of engines, moving away from the contested 50:50 split. Following significant pushback from drivers and manufacturers, the 2027 season will now feature a 53:47 ratio, eventually transitioning to a 60:40 split by 2028 to prioritize internal combustion power.

Why it matters:

This adjustment reflects a critical compromise between the sport's sustainability goals and the raw performance expected of Formula 1. The original 50:50 mandate was widely viewed as overly restrictive, with critics—including Max Verstappen and Lando Norris—arguing it would compromise driveability and overall lap times. By increasing fuel flow to the internal combustion engine (ICE), the FIA is ensuring the 2026+ era maintains the high-power spectacle essential to the sport's identity.

The Details:

• Phased Implementation: The power ratio will evolve from 53:47 in 2027 to a full 60:40 split in 2028.
• Technical Lever: The shift will be achieved primarily by increasing the fuel flow allowed to the internal combustion engine.
• Manufacturer Consensus: The solution follows extensive negotiations between the FIA and the five Power Unit Manufacturers (PUMs): Audi, Ferrari, Honda, Mercedes HPP, and Red Bull Powertrains.
• Formal Ratification: These changes are subject to final approval by the World Motor Sport Council on June 23rd.

The Big Picture:

While the regulatory roadmap is being finalized, the current performance hierarchy is starting to emerge. Recent ADUO data indicates that Red Bull Powertrains (RBPT) currently possesses the strongest ICE performance on the grid. Honda’s Trackside General Manager, Shintaro Orihara, acknowledged these findings as "fair," noting that Honda is now focused on improving combustion performance for the summer period to close the gap.

What's next:

With the 2027 and 2028 frameworks nearly set, the focus shifts from political negotiation to technical execution. Honda's aggressive pursuit of combustion upgrades suggests that while the rules are now "reasonable," the battle for power unit supremacy remains fierce as teams prepare for the next era of regulation.