The possible return of V8 engines in Formula 1 is gaining more support from various manufacturers. During the race weekend in Miami, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem announced that the V8 will return to the top class at the earliest in 2030. This means the sport will eventually say goodbye to the current hybrid V6 configuration. After Mercedes and Red Bull, Ford and General Motors have also expressed their support for the plans.
Ben Sulayem’s statements came at a time when the FIA had already announced adjustments to the new engine regulations for next year. This shifts the balance between electric drive and the combustion engine once again more towards the traditional combustion engine. This seems to be popular not only among fans and drivers but also with manufacturers. Team bosses Toto Wolff and Laurent Mekies, who both represent factory teams, have already shown enthusiasm, and now Ford and General Motors have also expressed their support.
Mark Rushbrook, head of Ford Performance, responded positively to the FIA’s proposal. “It’s great to see that the FIA and Formula 1 are already discussing the next regulations,” he said to The Detroit News. “We now have a significant stake in the sport and will certainly share our opinion on such matters. But as a company that produces many naturally aspirated V8 engines, we would definitely welcome a V8 in Formula 1.”
GM Chairman Mark Reuss also spoke positively about a possible return of the iconic engines. The parent company of Cadillac does not yet produce its own F1 engines but wants to enter the sport from 2029. “I love V8s and how they sound,” he said in an interview with the same outlet. “At the same time, as one of the newer teams, we must respect the current investments in the V6 formula. But if Formula 1 and the FIA say we are returning to V8 engines, we are definitely ready for that.” A majority of manufacturers must approve before the top class can actually switch to V8 blocks.
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