The loud Formula 1 we used to know might return soon. According to the FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, there are plans to get rid of complicated hybrid engines and return the sport to using V8 engines by 2030. It means a whole new strategy for the FIA, which will mean simpler cars, more noise, and less use of electric power. It was stated during the weekend of the Miami Grand Prix. In addition, the complaints of drivers and fans about the current regulations and hybrid engines make the change one of the most important discussions in Formula 1. With growing frustration from drivers and fans, this potential change is now one of the biggest talking points in the sport’s future.
It all happened due to dissatisfaction with the current hybrid engines era. In 2026, there were some changes in the car engine that involved more electric motors. Therefore, drivers needed to pay attention to the use of batteries in the process of racing. It affected racing performance and caused misunderstanding.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem has suggested a comeback, as he said, “It’s coming. At the end of the day, it’s a matter of time.”
The V8 Timeline Is Already Set
The blueprint is ready. The FIA wants to make the switch to V8 engines in the year 2030. The problem is that this can happen provided four of the six engine suppliers approve of it. In case no approval comes from those four, FIA has the right to implement the change in the year 2031 without voting. Thus, FIA fully controls the process regardless of any potential disagreement. Discussions are underway, but there are high hopes that the change will be implemented despite objections.
The newly designed engines are supposed to feature some limited amount of electrification. They should use sustainable fuels as well, which keeps some modern relevance while cutting down complexity.
Ben Sulayem has predicted a timeline about the change, “In 2031, the FIA will have the power to do it, without any votes… it will be done anyway.”
FIA says automakers can’t take sport ‘hostage’
Another important point that can be attributed to the decision taken by FIA is linked to the dynamics in the global automobile industry. Prior to that, the manufacturers had insisted on electrification of their cars, leading F1 towards its current direction of hybrid engines. But now, it looks like this trend is no longer going forward. In fact, markets are changing, and the uptake of full electrical systems seems to be falling.
The authorities feel that the sport needs to be independent of the strategy of the automobile manufacturers. Even though the automobile manufacturers play an important role, F1 wants to safeguard itself from any kind of abrupt change in the industry.
FIA official Nikolas Tombazis has made a statement as he said, “We cannot be hostage to automotive companies deciding to be part of our sport or not.”
