According to a Daily Mirror report, Formula One will revert to V8 engines by 2030 or 2031. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem confirmed the rule change, which follows the launch of a new engine era in 2025 that introduced a 50-50 electric-combustion split and sustainable fuel. Top drivers have expressed strong dissatisfaction with both the current and upcoming power units.
Max Verstappen, as recounted in the Daily Mirror, has been particularly blunt, comparing the new hybrid systems to Formula E and claiming they lack the fun and engagement of previous engines. Lewis Hamilton has also made his frustrations known, reportedly criticizing the overly intricate technical regulations that have added layers of complexity without improving the racing, and highlighting a disconnect between the sport's direction and driver preferences. The idea of reverting to V8 or V10 power was first floated by Ben Sulayem last year, when he suggested that sustainable fuels could make such engines viable.
The Daily Mirror report indicates that this proposal was swiftly rejected by the major power-unit manufacturers, who pointed to the billions already invested in developing the advanced hybrid systems. The current power unit, they argue, is excessively costly and is burdened by a heavy battery pack, which many insiders say compromises the cars' dynamics. According to the Daily Mirror, Ben Sulayem now sees the change as unavoidable, noting that the FIA will gain the authority to impose new engine rules without manufacturer consent when the current regulations expire in 2031.
He has stated his intention to accelerate the timeline, targeting 2030 for the introduction of the new engines. The envisioned V8 units, he clarified, will not be naturally aspirated; instead, they will be turbocharged but significantly less complex than the present system. They are being designed to be lighter, more acoustically pleasing, and more engaging for drivers.
Ben Sulayem emphasized that the V8 delivers the ideal mix of sound, mechanical simplicity, and reduced weight, aligning with the sport's heritage while embracing sustainability. The move is expected to reduce costs and reignite fan passion.