FIA President Announces Return of V8 Engines to Formula 1 by 2030-31

The 2026 regulations introduced a 1.6-litre V6 turbo-hybrid unit that splits roughly 50 % of power between combustion and electricity and uses sustainable fuel. Drivers, fans and some teams have criticised the “lift-and-coast” driving, super-clipping and the loss of the sport’s traditional sound. Key actors are FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the six power-unit manufacturers (Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull-Ford, Honda, Audi, GM/Cadillac), drivers such as Lance Stroll, and a vocal fan base.

Reuters

Hybrid rules began in 2026. At the Miami Grand Prix on May 3 2026, Ben Sulayem set a 2030 target for V8 re-introduction, with 2031 as a fallback if manufacturers reject it. A 2030 switch requires a super-majority of four of six manufacturers; in 2031 the FIA can act unilaterally. The new V8s would keep “very, very minor electrification,” moving the power split away from the current 46-54 % electric share. V8s already power road cars from Ferrari, Mercedes, Audi and Cadillac, offering a lighter, simpler unit.

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Sulayem says V8 power will lower technical complexity, reduce weight and restore the iconic engine sound that defines Formula 1. Simpler architecture could also address driver concerns about energy-management and improve safety by eliminating extreme speed differentials.

Reuters

Sulayem said the FIA can enforce a V8 switch in 2031 but aims to accelerate it to 2030 due to widespread demand. He noted most manufacturers “want it to happen,” showing broad support. No individual manufacturer statements were provided.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem reveals V8s are returning to Formula 1

Drivers have complained that the 2026 hybrid system forces “lift-and-coast” driving and creates dangerous closing speeds, as illustrated by Ollie Bearman’s high-g crash. Lance Stroll called the regulations “fundamentally flawed” and demanded a return to earlier engine formats. Fans similarly favour a louder, less complex power unit.

FIA President claims V8 engines could return to F1 by 2030

Sources differ on the certainty of the 2030 target: some present it as a firm goal, while others treat 2031 as the definitive fallback year when the FIA can act unilaterally. Detailed specifications for the V8, including the exact electric contribution, remain unspecified.

F1 V8 engines return 2030: Mohammed Ben Sulayem confirms minimal electric power shift

• “It's coming. At the end of the day, it's a matter of time. In 2031, the V8, the FIA will have the power to do it without any votes from the PUMs [Power Unit Manufacturers].” — Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President

F1 chief confirms major change to sport that fans have wanted for years

• “You get the sound, less complexity, lightweight.” — Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President

FIA President claims V8 engines could return to F1 by 2030

• “In 2031, the FIA will have the power to do it, without any votes from the PUMs [power unit manufacturers].” — Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President

F1 V8 engines return 2030: Mohammed Ben Sulayem confirms minimal electric power shift

• “The mission will be less complication, not like now,” — Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President

Reuters

The FIA will monitor manufacturer positions ahead of the 2029-30 season to see whether a super-majority vote can trigger the V8 rollout. If consensus is not reached, the organisation is prepared to implement the change in 2031 under existing regulatory authority.

F1 chief confirms major change to sport that fans have wanted for years