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F1 to Return to V8 Engines by 2031, With 2030 Possible on Manufacturer Vote

The FIA seeks a super-majority from engine suppliers to speed the change, citing a push to cut weight, cost and complexity.

Overview

  • FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, speaking at the Miami Grand Prix on Sunday, said the switch to V8s will be mandated in 2031 and could start in 2030 if four of six engine makers approve.
  • He said the plan aims to simplify the power unit, lower costs for builders and customer teams, and shed mass linked to large battery packs.
  • The next package would keep sustainable fuel and use only a very small hybrid boost, with V10s ruled out because manufacturers see little road-car relevance.
  • Drivers this season have reported having to lift off the throttle to recharge and unsafe speed gaps at starts, and the FIA already tweaked energy rules in Miami to reduce confusion.
  • The six voting suppliers are Mercedes, Ferrari, Red BullFord, Honda, Audi and General Motors for Cadillac, and their current team supply ties could shape how they line up.