FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has once again publicly advocated for the return of V8 engines to Formula 1, assuring that he will continue working to make the change feasible in the coming years. The official believes this path is inevitable and states that the category could return to using this configuration as early as 2030.
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The proposal has sparked debates in the paddock since Ben Sulayem began speaking openly about the topic. For him, V8s represent a simpler, lighter, and more economical alternative compared to the current power units, without compromising the category’s environmental goals, thanks to the use of sustainable fuels.
The FIA president highlighted that the entity will have the authority to implement the change starting in 2031, even without the approval of power unit manufacturers. Still, his preference is to bring this schedule forward by one year: “This will happen. Yes, it will happen. In the end, it’s a matter of time. In 2031, the FIA will have the power to do this without any vote from the power unit manufacturers. That’s what the regulations say. But we want to bring this forward by one year, which is what everyone is asking for now,” he said.
In a social media post, Ben Sulayem reinforced his position and explained the benefits he sees in the proposal. According to him, the combination of V8 engines and sustainable fuels would preserve Formula 1’s environmental targets while recovering historical characteristics of the category.
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Ben Sulayem continued: “I am committed to bringing V8s back to Formula 1. Ideally in 2030, but certainly in 2031 as part of the next FIA regulations cycle. V8s are lighter, simpler, and more economical, while sustainable fuels allow them to remain aligned with our environmental ambitions. More importantly, they bring back the unique and striking sound that fans around the world associate with Formula 1,” he said.
The official also emphasized the importance of engine sound for the category’s identity. In his view, louder and more impactful power units would increase fans’ emotional connection with the category: “Sound is part of Formula 1’s identity. Louder and more intense engines improve the fan experience,” he added.
The idea has received support from important names in motorsport. Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed support for the return of V8s, while Mercedes boss Toto Wolff also declared himself in favor of discussing future changes to engine regulations. Additionally, Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance, said he views the debate positively and highlighted the brand’s interest in a possible return of the traditional V8s to the category.
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