Verstappen Drops Truth Bomb on Red Bull's ADUO Row With FIA: We Don't See the Same Numbers
1lessidiot
Max Verstappen isn't holding back about Red Bull's ongoing dispute with the FIA over power unit measurements. Speaking ahead of the Italian Grand Prix at Monza, the four-time World Champion revealed the team and governing body still can't agree on the numbers when it comes to ADUO, the Additional Upgrade and Development Opportunities system that determines which power unit manufacturers get performance upgrades. Verstappen told accredited media that Red Bull remains surprised by the FIA's findings and that the two sides simply don't see eye-to-eye on where the rankings should sit.
More F1 news: Mercedes Trolls Ferrari With Savage Social Media Jab After Monza Masterclass
Red Bull Powertrains was named as the benchmark for performance after the second ADUO period, meaning the team and Racing Bulls can't use any additional power unit upgrades this season. That decision has left Verstappen bemused, especially when you consider that Mercedes has been judged to sit 2-4% behind Red Bull's figures, while Ferrari, Honda, and Audi are all 4% or more off the pace. Both Ferrari and Honda have already brought their own power unit upgrades to recent races, trying to close that gap. Verstappen's been joking about wanting some ADUO help himself, but the frustration is real.
More F1 news: Madrid's Mad New Madring Circuit Is About to Change Everything This Weekend
The dispute highlights just how complex and contentious these power unit regulations have become. The FIA has defended its measurements rigorously, but Red Bull simply isn't convinced the data adds up. Verstappen explained that at a track like Monza, which puts massive emphasis on engine performance, it's crucial to get these rankings right. He pointed out that the internal combustion engine and electrical elements split almost 50-50 in terms of overall power unit output, so being deemed the most powerful ICE doesn't automatically guarantee a performance advantage.
More F1 news: Madrid Madness: F1's Brand New Spanish GP Circuit Is About to Blow Everyone's Minds
Looking ahead to Monza specifically, Verstappen isn't expecting miracles for Red Bull. He acknowledged that other teams around them are bringing upgrades and making steps forward, while Red Bull was already behind. The focus now shifts to learning more about the car and what changes might be needed for next season. But one thing's for certain: the ADUO dispute won't be going away anytime soon, and Red Bull won't stop pushing the FIA on this one.
Shop the collection: Max Verstappen merch • Scuderia Ferrari merch • Red Bull Racing merch • Mercedes-AMG merch • VCARB merch • Audi merch