FIA Considering the Return of V10 Engines to Formula 1

Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), has sparked excitement among Formula 1 fans by hinting at the possibility of bringing back the legendary V10 engines. However, unlike their predecessors, these engines would be designed to run on sustainable fuel, aligning with F1’s ongoing push for environmental responsibility.

At the recent F1 launch event in London, FIA representatives did not receive the warmest reception—fans at the O2 Arena openly booed the organization, reflecting growing dissatisfaction with current regulations. Yet, Ben Sulayem appears determined to win back the favor of fans by suggesting something that could reignite the passion for the sport: the return of naturally aspirated V10 engines that once defined the golden era of Formula 1.

"This week’s F1 launch in London sparked many positive discussions about the future of the sport," Ben Sulayem wrote on Instagram.

"As we look forward to introducing the 2026 technical regulations for chassis and power units, we must also take the lead in shaping future technological trends in motorsport. We should explore multiple directions, including the return of the thrilling sound of V10 engines—this time running on sustainable fuel."

A Return to Formula 1’s Golden Era?

If this idea materializes, it would mark a dramatic shift for the sport. Formula 1 phased out turbocharged engines in 1989, ushering in the era of high-revving, naturally aspirated V10s. These engines became synonymous with peak F1 performance, and by the early 2000s, 3.0-liter V10s were pushing over 900 horsepower, revving up to a staggering 19,000 RPM, and producing an electrifying, ear-piercing soundtrack that became a defining feature of the sport.

For fans who never experienced the raw power and sound of V10 engines, a simple YouTube search will remind them why many still consider this era the pinnacle of Formula 1 excitement.

Balancing Performance, Costs, and Sustainability

While the potential return of V10s is thrilling, key challenges remain. Formula 1 has invested heavily in hybrid technology, and manufacturers have focused their research and development on electrification and fuel efficiency. Ben Sulayem acknowledges this, stating:

"Whatever direction we take, we must ensure that teams and manufacturers can manage research and development costs effectively."

This is a crucial point—while hybrid power units introduced in 2014 have contributed to advancements in automotive efficiency, they have also significantly increased costs. The current 1.6L V6 turbo-hybrid engines are among the most complex in the history of motorsport, pushing the financial limits of many teams, particularly those without strong manufacturer backing.

If sustainable fuel-powered V10s prove to be a cost-effective alternative while maintaining F1’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, it could be a game-changer.

Fans Crave the Return of Pure Racing Excitement

For many, modern Formula 1 lacks the raw intensity that once defined the sport. While today's hybrid power units are marvels of engineering, they don’t deliver the same visceral excitement—whether in terms of sound, unpredictability, or raw power delivery.

Ben Sulayem seems well aware of this sentiment, as he reassures:

"Meeting the expectations of our members and fans will always be at the core of everything we do, alongside our mission to make the sport safer and more sustainable for decades to come, ensuring future generations can enjoy Formula 1."

A return to high-revving, naturally aspirated engines, even if modified for sustainability, could inject fresh energy into the sport, attracting both hardcore fans and a new generation of enthusiasts.

Could This Actually Happen?

While Ben Sulayem’s statement has ignited widespread excitement, it remains unclear how serious FIA is about pursuing this concept. The sport is already committed to a new engine formula for 2026, which includes fully sustainable fuels and an increase in electrical power.

However, if manufacturers and teams express strong interest, this could reshape the long-term trajectory of Formula 1 beyond 2026.

One thing is certain—fans would love nothing more than to see (and hear) the return of the screaming V10s.

For now, all eyes are on FIA to see whether this dream could become reality.