An internal combustion engine has an exhaust gas turbocharger with an exhaust gas turbine and a compressor. In addition, an air-driven turbine is provided which is torsionally connected to the compressor and to which combustion air can be supplied via an adjustable shut-off element. For operation of the exhaust gas turbocharger over a wide operating spectrum, an additional duct is provided between compressor inlet and the air inlet of the air turbine, the air supply in the additional duct being adjustable by the shut-off element. In the lower load range, in the case where the required boost pressure falls below a threshold value, the additional duct is opened by means of the shut-off element and the air supply to the compressor inlet is reduced.