FIA Plans V8-Hybrid Return for F1 by 2031

Overview

• FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem says Formula 1 will move to V8-based engines no later than 2031, with a 2030 start possible if four of the six current suppliers agree.
• The target design uses a 2.6 to 3.0-liter combustion engine with a small hybrid system that supplies about 10% to 20% of total power.
• Ben Sulayem argues the package will be simpler, cheaper, and lighter, and he says clearer rules and cost caps could let teams such as McLaren build their own engines.
• Engine makers are reported to be reluctant, and Audi chief Mattia Binotto defends the 2026 rules and calls for careful talks with the FIA.
• As a bridge, stakeholders are discussing tweaks to the current formula, including a possible 60/40 power split favoring the fuel engine in 2027 and aerodynamic cuts to ease energy management and improve drivability.