FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem recently revealed the possibility of a significant change in Formula 1 with the sport potentially returning to V8 engines by the 2029 season. This development signals a move away from the current V6 hybrid power units, aiming to balance performance, cost, and manufacturer interests in the future of F1.
During the 2025 British Grand Prix weekend, Ben Sulayem detailed plans surrounding engine regulations, highlighting that while a new V6 hybrid engine will debut in 2026 with equal power contributions from the internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid components, concerns remain regarding its complexity and costs. These challenges have prompted discussions about different engine configurations to ensure sustainability and competitive appeal.
Challenges Prompting Consideration of V8 Engines
Despite the introduction of a new V6 hybrid design for 2026, manufacturers have raised concerns regarding the current engine’s technological complexity and escalating costs. Earlier this year, the FIA President had proposed considering a return to V10 engines as a future option. However, after meetings with engine manufacturers in Bahrain, the V10 concept faced resistance and was ultimately set aside.
Ben Sulayem has since put forward the V8 hybrid as a practical alternative for the 2029 season, citing extensive research and development expenses alongside production costs linked to the current V6 hybrid units. Even though the MGU-H system will be removed from the 2026 power units, the costs remain substantial, with an estimated price range of $1.8 million to $2.1 million per engine.
“To us, the V8 is happening. With the teams now, I’m very optimistic, happy about it. FOM [Formula One Management] are supportive, the teams are realising it is the right way. We need to do it soon. You need three years, so hopefully by 2029 we have something there, but the fuel is also very expensive, and we have to be very careful with that. Transmissions are very expensive,” said the FIA President
“The current engine is so complicated, you have no idea, and it is costly. R&D is reaching $200 million, and the engine is costing approximately $1.8m to $2.1m, so if we go with a straight V8, let’s see,” he added
Commercial and Practical Benefits of Adopting V8 Engines
Ben Sulayem also emphasized the commercial logic behind returning to V8 engines since most Formula 1 engine manufacturers already produce V8 engines for road vehicles. Aligning F1 power units with road-relevant technology could streamline development efforts and reduce costs, potentially making the sport more sustainable and attractive to manufacturers.
This move could also enhance the sport’s identity by reinstating a more traditional engine format, which many motorsport fans and stakeholders regard as iconic in the history of Formula 1.
Prospects for New Teams: Chinese Entry Considered by FIA
While FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem is focused on future technical regulations, he is also open to expanding the Formula 1 grid. After approving Cadillac F1 as the new American team to join the 2026 season, he expressed support for the potential inclusion of a Chinese F1 team as the 12th entry on the grid, given the growth opportunities it would offer.
“I still feel that we need more teams than more races. If there is a Chinese [bid] and I will speak on behalf of Formula One management now. Think of the long term. If there is another team from China, they will approve it 100% because it is good for business.”
However, Ben Sulayem clarified that any new team, including a Chinese contender, would need to satisfy the FIA’s rigorous approval and selection criteria, similar to the process Cadillac underwent. The FIA remains committed to maintaining high standards for new entrants, ensuring competitive balance and sustainability.
The Significance of the V8 Return and Formula 1’s Future
The proposed F1 return to V8 engines marks a potential turning point in the sport’s evolution, balancing technological innovation with cost control and commercial appeal. By moving away from the increasingly complex and expensive V6 hybrids, Formula 1 aims to foster closer competition and involve manufacturers more deeply aligned with their road car technologies.
Looking ahead, this strategy could revitalize fan interest by reintroducing the distinctive sounds and characteristics associated with V8 engines, while also paving the way for new teams and markets, including the possible entrance of a Chinese team. As development continues, motorsport fans will be watching closely to see how these plans unfold by the 2029 season and beyond.
Our Reader’s Queries
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