FIA sets strict criteria for a possible Formula 1 V8 return

FIA keeps V8 return under review

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has offered fresh insight into the governing body’s approach to a possible return to V8 engines in Formula 1, making clear that any change would have to satisfy a demanding set of criteria before receiving approval.

The debate has continued since early 2026, when Ben Sulayem first raised the prospect of replacing Formula 1’s turbo-hybrid V6 power units with a naturally aspirated formula. Several teams have since indicated that they would welcome such a move, while the current regulations are due to remain in place until 2031 at the latest.

That gives the FIA a clear outer deadline for finalising any replacement engine concept. The early 2030s remain the likeliest window for a switch, although no formal proposal has yet been put forward.

The discussion has gained momentum amid frustration with the 2026 power units. Drivers and teams have criticised their reliance on electrical deployment and the energy-management compromises that can result during a race. Recent concerns over unpredictability in this area have also been explored in reports on the 2026 power unit’s impact on qualifying.

A new engine concept, not a fixed blueprint

Speaking to Viaplay, Ben Sulayem acknowledged that the FIA must be willing to revisit decisions that do not work as intended.

“We do make mistakes. We do have loopholes like the teams,” he said. “But one thing that we will always do is we raise our hand and we fix it.”

He also pointed to improved on-track competition since the season began as evidence that regulatory oversight is having an effect. Any engine change, however, would need to clear a significant approval hurdle: manufacturers and power unit manufacturers require a “super majority” of four out of six, alongside input from the teams.

Ben Sulayem described the FIA’s work as a fresh “white paper” process rather than a commitment to a predetermined V8 design. Sound quality, mechanical simplicity and cost control are among the priorities being considered, with sustainability retained through the use of sustainable fuel. Detailed cost modelling is currently being carried out with the teams.

Drivers to have a central voice

The FIA president also stressed that the process is intended to involve the entire F1 community. The teams, power unit manufacturers and drivers are all being consulted before the concept advances.

“It’s important. It’s not me, it’s not the teams. It’s the drivers who are driving these cars,” Ben Sulayem said.

For now, Formula 1’s engine direction remains unresolved. But the FIA’s position is clear: any V8 comeback must deliver on sound, simplicity, affordability and sustainability, with 2031 the outer limit for a decision to be finalised.