According to Auto Motor und Sport, Formula 1 teams will be permitted to use their 2025 vehicles for “Testing of Previous Cars” (TPC) programs in 2026.
Historic cars used on test tracks, usually for the development of young drivers, are generally required by TPC regulations to be at least two years old. However, a 2026 exception will allow 2025 single-seaters the following year due to broad rule changes.
Journalist Michael Schmidt cautions that teams transferring engine suppliers may face difficulties as a result.
Consider Sauber, which is currently driven by Ferrari but will switch to Audi’s engineering staff in 2026. Schmidt disclosed that Ferrari is not very interested in continuing to supply Sauber with engines for the 2025 model since Audi would have a benchmark at that point and might learn too much from a rival’s product.
“Even if Maranello agreed, the cost would be so high that it would be worth considering. $3–5 million per engine is being discussed,” he continued.
There is no such obstacle for Aston Martin, which plans to switch from Mercedes customer engines to Honda’s works power in 2026. Schmidt affirmed, “The high costs do not deter them, especially since they are not included in the budget cap. Mercedes is in one condition. To differentiate itself from the operational team that receives engines from Honda, Aston Martin must operate its TPC program from an outside building with a distinct staff.
In 2026, Alpine plans to switch from Renault works engines to Mercedes customer power. Before the 2026 Alpine-Mercedes can be used in 2028, Schmidt clarified, “a small group of Renault engineers will be available at Viry-Chatillon for the TPC tests, who will look after the 2025 (Renault) power units.”
In the meantime, Red Bull’s 2026 transition to its own Ford-backed engines makes things more difficult for the team. Schmidt observed, “The situation is more difficult,” Not to be deterred, however, advisor Dr. Helmut Marko states, “There is an agreement (with Honda) for the future.”