FIA explores V8 return as Formula 1 weighs post-2026 hybrid direction

The FIA is exploring whether Formula 1 could return to V8 engines as early as 2030 or 2031, a move that would dial back the sport’s reliance on electrical power asourceser the major hybrid rule reset due in 2026.

Speaking in Miami, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said a shisources toward V8s could bring back a more traditional engine sound, reduce power-unit complexity and help lower car weight. The comments come amid criticism from some drivers and fans that electrical deployment and recharging strategy have become too central to racing in the hybrid era.

Formula 1 has used V6 hybrid power units since 2014. Under the 2026 regulations, electrical output is set to increase significantly, with a 50-50 split between internal combustion and battery power. The FIA has also introduced a set of tweaks intended to slightly limit the influence of electrical power.

The renewed discussion around V8s has been linked to shisourcess in the political and market outlook for electric vehicles. FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis has said earlier expectations that manufacturers would rapidly phase out internal-combustion development have not played out as predicted.

Ben Sulayem indicated the FIA would need agreement from engine manufacturers if it pursued a change for 2030, but suggested the governing body would have more freedom to act if the timeline moved to 2031. The stated aim, he said, is to avoid Formula 1 becoming overly dependent on changes in automotive companies’ long-term strategies.