Mercedes' Fuel Supplier Clears Final Hurdle: Petronas Receives FIA Homologation for 2026 Season
Petronas has successfully secured FIA homologation for its sustainable fuel formula, clearing the way for Mercedes and three additional teams to compete in the 2026 championship. The Malaysian energy company's F1 division received the critical certification with minimal time to spare before the campaign's Melbourne curtain-raiser.
In a crucial development for the 2026 Formula 1 season, Petronas has officially obtained homologation approval from the FIA for the sustainable fuel designed to power Mercedes' power units. The fuel supplier's championship-winning formula will also be utilized by McLaren, Williams, and Alpine throughout the upcoming campaign.
The Malaysian corporation's Formula 1 fuel division managed to secure the essential FIA certification at the eleventh hour, ensuring eligibility for participation in the 2026 world championship. With the season's opening race in Melbourne looming on the calendar, the approval represents a significant achievement for Petronas' technical operations.
This homologation marks a pivotal moment in the 2026 season's preparation, as teams relying on Petronas' sustainable fuel solution can now proceed with confidence toward the championship's commencement. The last-minute nature of the approval underscores the meticulous certification process required before any fuel specification can be deployed in Formula 1 competition.
Original source
Motorsport.com
Related Regulations
Hover over badges for quick summaries, or scroll down for full official text and simplified explanations.
Full Regulation Text
Article 1.2
Homologation dossier contents
Chapter: Appendix C5
In Simple Terms
Before a team can use a new power unit in F1, they need to submit a complete package of paperwork to the FIA. This package must list every major power unit component, all the smaller parts, and other required documents following a specific FIA template (FIA-F1-DOC-C047). Think of it as getting your engine approved before you can race.
- Teams must document all Power Unit (PU) Elements - the major components like the engine, turbo, and MGU systems
- A detailed list of Minor Parts must be included - smaller components that make up the power unit
- All submissions must follow the official FIA-F1-DOC-C047 format and template
- This homologation process is the approval system that ensures all power units meet F1 regulations
Official FIA Text
Dossier must include details of all PU Elements, detailed list of Minor Parts, all required documents, submitted per FIA-F1-DOC-C047.
Article 79
Fuel
Chapter: Appendix C4
In Simple Terms
F1 cars must use approved fuel that meets strict FIA specifications for safety and competitive fairness. Teams cannot add illegal additives or use fuel from unauthorized suppliers, and fuel must be checked and verified before and after races.
- All fuel must be FIA-approved and meet technical specifications
- Fuel samples are tested before and after races for compliance
- Teams cannot use unauthorized fuel suppliers or add illegal additives
- Fuel regulations ensure safety and maintain competitive balance
Official FIA Text
Fuel
Article 2.1.1
Obligations of Fuel and Engine Oil Suppliers
Chapter: SECTION C: TECHNICAL REGULATIONS
In Simple Terms
Fuel and oil suppliers who want to work in F1 need to register with the FIA by January 1st of the year before they start. They must pay their fees, follow all the rules, and promise not to sue over patents or intellectual property. It's basically the FIA saying 'if you want to be our supplier, here's what you need to do.'
- Suppliers must register by January 1st of the year before they begin supplying
- Registration requires paying FIA invoices and fees
- Suppliers must agree to follow all FIA Regulations and the International Sporting Code
- Suppliers must sign a patent/intellectual property agreement promising not to pursue patent claims
Official FIA Text
Prospective Supplier must complete registration form by 1 January year N-1, pay FIA invoices, agree to be bound by FIA Regulations, ISC, and Prospective Supplier Non-Assert Agreement regarding patents and intellectual property.
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