Verstappen willing to wait until 2030 for potential F1 V8 return

Verstappen accepts a longer wait for V8 engines

Max Verstappen says he is willing to accept waiting until 2030 for Formula 1 to potentially re-adopt V8 engines, despite remaining unhappy with the championship’s new power-unit direction.

Verstappen described the new cars as “anti-racing” and “Formula E on steroids” during pre-season testing. At that stage, he also indicated that retirement could be an option before the end of his previous contract, which was due to expire in 2028.

Incremental changes before a possible reset

The current regulations are not expected to remain static during the opening years of the cycle. For 2027, the power split will be modified to increase reliance on the ICE, with another adjustment planned for 2028. By the third year, the balance is scheduled to reach 60:40 in favour of the internal combustion engine.

Verstappen accepts that those changes will not immediately resolve all of his concerns, but discussions with Formula 1 and the FIA have left the door open to further improvements and, potentially, a return to V8 power in 2030.

“I've accepted the situation that we're in; I'm personally, of course, not happy with it,” Verstappen told media, including RacingNews365.

“But at the same time, with the discussions I've had with F1 and the FIA, already trying to make little improvements for next year and the year after, plus the year I signed to, leaving the door open for a potential V8 return, I'm willing to accept that, but at the moment, let's say it is not fantastic.”

Verstappen still committed to racing

Despite his criticism, Verstappen stressed that his attachment to Formula 1 remains intact. He said he still loves racing and acknowledged that the cars remain Formula 1 machinery, while noting that some circuits are better suited than others.

“So hopefully, over the years, it will get a little bit better,” he added.