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FIA Pushes for Affordable V8 and Independent Engine Supplier
Formula 1 is preparing major changes for the 2031 engine regulations, featuring the return of V8 engines and plans to curb the influence of major manufacturers over customer teams.
By Sanne Vermeer - 2026-07-06T16:00:40.000Z - 2 min read
Formula 1 is definitively preparing for a new era with V8 engines, as the FIA and Formula One Management previously made clear. The current complex and costly turbo-hybrids, which also fail to produce the desired sound, appear set to be history by 2031. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, provided further insights during the British Grand Prix into plans that could fundamentally alter the sport.
One of the most striking developments is the proposal to appoint an independent engine supplier. This entity could deliver standard, affordable V8 engines to teams, significantly reducing reliance on major manufacturers. According to Ben Sulayem, this move should end the leverage engine builders exert over their customer teams, for instance during voting procedures. Independent teams would thus gain a stronger standing and be less vulnerable to pressure.
The FIA President emphasized the benefits of a simpler and cheaper engine concept. R&D budgets could be halved, and cars should become around 100 kg lighter, which would also benefit safety. Some teams, such as McLaren, see a potential opportunity in this to build their own power units, although Renault currently shows no interest via Alpine in returning as an engine manufacturer.
Nevertheless, some form of electrification will remain, albeit with a significantly reduced role – estimated at 10 to 15 percent of output. The debate over turbochargers versus naturally aspirated V8s is ongoing; Ben Sulayem suggests a choice between a hybrid component or a turbo to limit weight and costs. At the same time, the FIA is exploring the return of refueling. A naturally aspirated V8 requires more fuel, which would partially offset the advantage of a lighter car. The impact on racing, costs, and safety is currently under study.