Overview
- FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, speaking Sunday at the Miami Grand Prix, said Formula 1 will replace the current V6 hybrids with V8 engines by 2031, or in 2030 if four of the six power unit manufacturers agree.
- The planned V8s would use sustainable fuel with only very minor electrification, keeping the internal combustion engine as the main power source, and V10s are off the table.
- The 2026 units split power roughly equally between engine and battery, which has added weight and complexity and forced drivers to lift and coast to recharge, prompting safety concerns and rule tweaks for Miami.
- Early reaction from teams includes openness from Mercedes, with Toto Wolff backing a simpler V8 so long as some electric boost keeps road relevance, while Red Bull’s camp signaled it could adapt.
- Key details still to be decided include the exact electric share, weight targets, and cost controls, with a lighter, simpler package expected to improve racing quality, reduce development spend, and restore more traditional engine sound.