Mohammed Ben Sulayem is still convinced that Formula 1 should eventually return to V8 engines. The premier class has been racing with hybrid V6 turbo engines since 2014, but the FIA president believes that an eight-cylinder engine better aligns with the sport’s wishes regarding costs, fan experience, and driver preferences. The FIA is currently investigating with the teams and involved manufacturers to what extent a return to V8s is possible in the future.
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Earlier this year, Ben Sulayem already suggested that Formula 1 could return to V8 engines. The current engine regulations – which have already received much criticism from both drivers and fans – are fixed until 2031. However, with the approval of the teams, the FIA president wants to be able to switch to a new formula as early as 2030, preferably with V8 engines. Several teams have now shown interest in the idea, making a reintroduction seem increasingly realistic.
Several F1 drivers, including Max Verstappen, have criticized the power delivery of the current power unit and the complexity of energy management in recent months. It is not without reason that the FIA has already confirmed that the use of electric power will be limited in the coming seasons. According to Ben Sulayem, the FIA is prepared to address problems when it turns out that the regulations do not have the desired effect. “We make mistakes,” he admitted to Viaplay. “Just like with the teams, our plans are never watertight. But one thing we will always do: we will take responsibility and fix it.”
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Drivers’ opinion is important
“If you look at the races at the beginning of the year, you see that there wasn’t enough competition,” he explained. “Now you do see that competition – the difference is smaller because the FIA has intervened. We study all incoming information, all complaints, but ultimately it is the teams and manufacturers, albeit with a majority vote, who must ensure that motorsport remains competitive and fair.” Precisely for this reason, Ben Sulayem wanted to emphasize that new engine regulations are drawn up in consultation. This includes looking at sound, costs, and sustainability.
“Returning to the V8, we need to consider what the objectives are,” he continued. “Why would we race with this engine again? Because I think there is a need for a completely new engine design that covers all points. One aspect is the sound that fans crave so much; that is very important to us. In addition, it’s about simplicity and cost-effectiveness. And yes, we can race one hundred percent climate-neutral with sustainable fuels – we are currently calculating that together with the teams. We do everything in consultation with the teams, the engine manufacturers, and the drivers. That is very important. After all, they have to drive these cars.”
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