FIA President Eyes V8 Engines for F1 by 2030

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem is optimistic about setting the stage for a potential return of V8 engines to Formula 1 by 2030, expecting the technical framework to be established in the coming months. Despite this enthusiasm, agreement from both the teams and the power unit manufacturers remains elusive.

F1 recently adopted a new power unit formula, with a near-even split between combustion and electric power, which has been met with mixed reviews. Some drivers have likened it to "Mario Kart" with a "mushroom boost," while others have criticized the overtaking dynamics as "artificial." Although adjustments are planned for the 2027 regulations, shifting to a more ICE-favorable 60/40 split by 2028, Ben Sulayem is pushing for the nostalgic roar of V8 engines.

The last time V8 engines graced the F1 grid was in 2013, before the switch to turbocharged V6 engines. Earlier this year, Ben Sulayem voiced his commitment to bringing V8s back to the sport, claiming that power unit manufacturers are keen on the idea. Yet, during a recent visit to Rwanda, where he confirmed the African Grand Prix, he admitted that consensus is still a work in progress.

"No, not yet," he chuckled when asked about the agreement, hinting at the possibility of even more powerful engines if a compromise isn't reached. He emphasized the ongoing consultations with teams, power unit manufacturers, and drivers, with the focus on simplifying the engines and reducing costs. "When you make it simpler, and then you make it half the price, the R&D doesn’t just go down by half," he explained, "the simplicity means production can take less time."

Ben Sulayem also touched on the importance of limiting certain materials to control costs and ensure reliability. The goal is to maintain the iconic sound and reduce car weight, although he acknowledged the challenges of balancing these factors under the cost cap. "It’s not just a case of going lighter and lighter," he said, noting the need for a smaller, more manageable car.

Reflecting on his experiences at Retromobile in France and Le Mans, he mused about the growing size of cars over the years, highlighting the stark difference between older models and today's vehicles. As the 2026 F1 season draws to a close, Ben Sulayem stressed the urgency of finalizing the new formula to allow manufacturers ample time for development.

"That engine is very complex," he said, referring to the current power units. "But with the simpler design, it will definitely be more straightforward." He praised the FIA's single-seater team for their efforts and assured that the new regulations would be feasible for the teams.

Ben Sulayem is hopeful that the technical regulations for the next power unit cycle will be settled soon. "In a few months, hopefully," he stated, underlining the pressure on teams and manufacturers to respond promptly.

With the African Grand Prix securing a spot on the calendar and ongoing discussions about the future of F1 power units, the sport is poised for an intriguing evolution in the coming years.