F1 fans FUME as FIA set to Ditch Planned Changes

By Joe Murphy

Formula 1 will not revert to V10 engines in the immediate future following a constructive meeting between the FIA and the teams on Friday.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who had previously advocated for the return of V10 engines — which were last used in 2005 — chaired the discussion. While Ben Sulayem had hoped to reintroduce V10 engines as early as 2028, the current 2026 regulations, which mandate significant updates to both power units and chassis, are set to remain in effect until 2030.

At the outset of the meeting, Ben Sulayem emphasized that the primary objective was to explore sustainable, cost-effective solutions for the long-term health of both the sport and its commercial interests. In a statement, the FIA reiterated its commitment to the 2026 regulations: “The FIA remains fully dedicated to the 2026 Formula One framework. Extensive resources have been invested into the development of hybrid power units running on 100% sustainable fuel, with a focus on advancing both performance and environmental goals.”

“The 2026 regulations, which will affect power units and chassis, have already attracted new manufacturers, reinforcing that the chosen technical path is the correct one.”

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner shared his perspective with Trackside Media, stating: “It was a very positive and constructive meeting. The FIA president sought feedback on the future direction of the sport, particularly with an eye toward the post-2026 era. While the 2026 regulations are firmly established, the discussion included broader considerations for the long-term trajectory of F1.”

Horner continued, “A return to V10 engines in 2027 is not realistic, and 2028 appears equally unlikely. At this stage, the conversation is focused on gathering insights, with power unit manufacturers providing feedback to the FIA to guide future decisions.”

To revise the current regulations, at least four engine manufacturers would need to support the proposal.

Mercedes, Ferrari, and Honda will remain in Formula 1 from 2026 onwards, with Red Bull Powertrains, in partnership with Ford, supplying engines to both Red Bull Racing and AlphaTauri.

Honda, which had initially planned to exit F1 after this season, will continue in the sport, but as the exclusive engine supplier to Aston Martin. Audi will make its entry into Formula 1 by acquiring the Sauber team.

The new Cadillac F1 team will join the grid in 2026, initially using Ferrari engines but planning to transition to its own power unit by the end of the decade. General Motors participated in Friday’s meeting as well.

The 2026 regulations will mandate that engines be powered 50% by electricity and run entirely on sustainable fuels.

The FIA confirmed that electrification will remain a fundamental consideration in future developments, with the adoption of sustainable fuels being a key priority. As such, any potential reintroduction of V10 engines would almost certainly incorporate an electric element.

Further discussions regarding the future of F1 are anticipated, but all teams have committed to the 2026 regulations, which will also feature smaller, more agile cars.