FIA Pushes for V8 Engine Return in Formula 1 by 2030

The FIA announced a plan to replace the V6 turbo-hybrid power units that have powered Formula 1 since 2014 with naturally aspirated V8 engines. President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said the switch could occur in 2030, and that the governing body would enforce the change by 2031 if manufacturers do not consent.

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Since 2014, F1 has run V6 turbo-hybrid units that deliver roughly half of peak power from electric boost. The hybrid formula has been criticised for reduced engine sound and added complexity. Ben Sulayem has proposed a V8 that retains only “very, very minor electrification,” aiming for a louder, simpler package.

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Key participants include FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, Mercedes-AMG Petronas team principal Toto Wolff, the six current power-unit manufacturers (with Cadillac slated as a future entrant), and drivers such as Max Verstappen and Lando Norris who have voiced opinions on the engine direction.

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Ben Sulayem told Reuters the FIA will “force the change through by 2031 if needed,” but he remains hopeful that manufacturers will agree to a 2030 rollout. Wolff said Mercedes is “open to new engine regulations” and stressed the need for a structured discussion that balances combustion power with electric assistance.

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Four-time champion Max Verstappen called the current hybrids “anti-racing,” while Lando Norris likened the battery-boosted experience to “Mario Kart” and said recent rule changes before the Miami Grand Prix were insufficient. Their remarks highlight driver concerns about reduced sound and perceived artificiality.

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• “It's coming. At the end of the day, it's a matter of time,” — Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President

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• “You get the sound, less complexity, lightweight," Ben Sulayem said of V8s.” — Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA President

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• “From a Mercedes standpoint, we are open to new engine regulations," Wolff said after Sunday's race.” — Toto Wolff, Mercedes Team Principal

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• “Because if we swing 100% combustion, it might be looking a bit ridiculous in 2031 or 2030.” — Toto Wolff, Mercedes Team Principal

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Ben Sulayem outlined two milestones: a voluntary 2030 adoption if four of the six power-unit manufacturers agree, and a mandatory 2031 implementation that the FIA can impose without consent. The precise level of retained electrification and the final power split have not been disclosed.

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The FIA will meet with power-unit manufacturers during the 2024-2025 regulatory window to assess support for a 2030 rollout. Mercedes has pledged to engage in structured talks, while driver groups are expected to keep raising concerns ahead of the next season’s technical review.

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