Williams team boss James Vowles expects quick clarity in the compression dispute – but Red Bull does not see it as a mere sideshow
Amid the heated debate about the compression ratio of the Mercedes engine, James Vowles is demonstratively calm. The Williams team boss expects a quick solution and considers the issue to be overrated.
“I think there’s a misunderstanding about how significant this really is,” says Vowles, whose Williams team uses Mercedes engines. “To be honest, I think it’s just noise. I reckon it will be sorted out in the next 48 hours.”
There is speculation in the paddock that the Mercedes engine achieves a higher compression ratio in driving mode than the officially permitted 16:1 in static tests. Depending on the interpretation, the advantage is said to be between a few horsepower and up to 20 or 30 horsepower. One thing is clear: rivals are demanding clarity – and, if in doubt, a ban.
Williams affected as a Mercedes customer
As a customer team, Williams relies on the Mercedes power unit. Accordingly, the discussion is being followed closely. A week ago, his protégé Carlos Sainz had already directed attention more toward Red Bull, which he believes has the best drive system.
“We’re not stressed, regardless of which direction it goes in – but we need clarity,” said Mekies. Especially in a new era of regulations, even an advantage of one or two tenths of a second can be decisive.
The dispute over the compression ratio has long been more than just a technical issue. It is part of the political game in the paddock, where every detail becomes a potential competitive advantage. Whether the matter will actually be resolved within 48 hours, as Vowles predicts, remains to be seen.
