Is Formula 1 Considering a Return to V10 Engines Powered by Sustainable Fuel?

In the ever-evolving world of motorsports, the future is often shaped by conversations sparked on social media platforms. Such was the case when FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem posted an Instagram message three days after the season launch in London, expressing interest in exploring “a range of directions” for Formula 1’s top category, including the possibility of reintroducing the iconic V10 engine powered by sustainable fuel.

Internal Discussions and Scenarios Under Consideration

Since that post, the FIA has stepped up internal discussions, with single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis confirming in Shanghai that various scenarios are being explored. Although no proposal is currently on the table, he didn’t rule out the possibility of introducing a new engine formula – and possibly earlier than originally planned.

The governing body is now facing two key questions, Tombazis stressed. First, is this a direction Formula 1 wants to pursue, potentially bringing back the roaring sound of V10s powered by sustainable fuels? And second, what would the timeline be? If this path is chosen, should Formula 1 wait until the next generation of power units completes its intended five-year cycle or look for a shortcut?

An even more complicated part of the second question is how such a change could be implemented. Should Formula 1 shorten the 2026 cycle or abandon the ruleset entirely, sticking with the current formula for a few more years before switching to V10s? Even a drastic scenario like this wasn’t completely ruled out by Tombazis.