F1
Mohammed Ben Sulayem promises the return of the V8 engine to F1: "I'm aiming for 2030"
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While F1 As the Formula 1 World Championship heats up in Miami, the FIA president has shaken the paddock with an unexpected announcement. The premier category is reportedly preparing to turn the page on hybrid V6 engines. Deemed too expensive and complex, these engines are expected to give way to V8 engines by 2031, or even 2030. This decision aims to simplify the sport, while also restoring the legendary sound of the cars.
By 2030, just before the end of the regulatory cycle that began this 2026 season, the V8 will make its grand return. It happens, assures Mohamed Ben Sulayemen Reuters particularly on the sidelines of the Miami GP, by mentioning a return to V8 or V10 engines. Oh yes, it's coming. In the end, it's just a matter of time. I'm aiming for 2030. One year before the [settlement] deadline. It will happen. »
V8 or V10 engines?
Between the two options considered to replace the current V6 turbo hybrids, the governing body has decided in favor of the V8. I get the impression that a V10… if I ask any current F1 manufacturer if they produce cars equipped with a V10, an architecture that many cars have had in the past, today the answer is no, he adds. The most popular and easiest to use is the V8. You get the sound, less complexity, and it's lighter. »
The hybridization of the power unit would also change. You'll hear about it very soon. There will be a very, very slight electrification, but the main component will be the internal combustion engine. It won't be like today with a 46-54% split. Electric power will be minimal. »
As a reminder, the naturally aspirated 2,4-litre V8s last roared in 2013. Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull-RenaultHe was, in fact, the last winner of this era in Brazil. He is also remembered as a historical benchmark in the sport. The Cosworth DFV V8 was indeed the engine of choice for most teams for over two decades, from the 1960s to the early 1980s.
« When we try to talk to them [the engine manufacturers], they say no, but what will be will be, and the power will return to the FIA., insists the Emirati leader. If the manufacturers don't vote for it, then it will be done a year later. The question isn't, 'Do I need their support?' No, it will happen. The V8 is coming. »
Simplify F1
The objective is to " reduce complexity he explains. " When the MGU-H was present, it served a specific purpose, but none of the manufacturers took advantage of it in the real world. Now, with just the MGU-K, it's the same engine. It's a 1,6-liter turbo. The V8, you see it [in production cars] at Classic Ferrari for sale, Mercedes Benz"Audi or Cadillac. It's found in most manufacturers' vehicles, and it allows for a lightweight car."
This change, which will be made with sustainable fuel, confirms Mohammed Ben Sulayem's desire to simplify Formula 1.
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Yves-Henri RANDIER
04/05/2026 at 11:35 a.m.
MBS states regarding the manufacturers: "Do I need their support? No, it will happen. The V8 is coming." If he succeeds, his second term will have served some purpose, but whether he likes it or not, the FIA doesn't decide alone; Liberty Media and the manufacturers have the final say! The desire to simplify current technology (which is difficult to transfer to current and future road vehicles), the need to reduce costs and return to a more basic approach—who could possibly want to oppose it? Certainly not Cadillac, which, let's remember, must develop its own engine for the 2029 season, while MBS wants the V8 for the 2030 season... Validating the future engine strategy is indeed a 2026 priority!
Cbp
04/05/2026 at 12:51 a.m.
Perhaps MBS should aim for the exit door
vincent moyet
03/05/2026 at 05:45 a.m.
It's Le Mans who pull the strings behind the scenes, regularly imposing more or less outlandish rules for their sacrosanct "spectacle," which must be as profitable as possible. But it's the manufacturers who make the engines and invest in F1, so without their agreement, nothing is possible. The question remains: which technological path will they pursue? But it's clear that current F1 has reached a dead end, and a way out must be found.
Joel Gaboriaud
03/05/2026 at 04:32 a.m.
Let's hope he succeeds in restoring F1 to its former glory. But the barriers of Liberti Media will be difficult to overcome.