FIA President Pushes for V8 Engine Comeback to Make Formula One Cars Lighter and More Exciting.
Dubai: FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has renewed his call for the return of V8 engines to Formula One, arguing that the move could make cars lighter, reduce costs and deliver a more thrilling racing experience for drivers and spectators.
Ahead of this weekend’s United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, Ben Sulayem revealed that discussions with Formula One Management (FOM), racing teams and engine manufacturers were moving forward, with the aim of reintroducing V8 engines during the 2030s.
“I believe the change will be felt by everyone, from the drivers to the fans, and it will usher in a thrilling new era for Formula One as the pinnacle of global motorsport,” he said in a press release.
The FIA chief, who previously competed as a rally driver, believes the proposed changes could reduce car weight by around 80kg while lowering research, development and engine-related expenses by at least 50 per cent.
Drawing on his motorsport background, Ben Sulayem emphasised the importance of giving drivers lighter, more responsive machines that allow them to perform at their best.
“Rallying gave me a practical understanding of what drivers, teams and organisers need from the sport and that experience stays with me. It tells me that a lighter car, one a driver can push to the limit, is the foundation of great racing,” he added.
Ben Sulayem also pointed to the distinctive roar of V8 engines as a major attraction for Formula One enthusiasts. The engines were last used in the championship in 2013 before the sport adopted V6 turbo-hybrid power units in 2014.
“Fans experience Formula One with all their senses, and the sound of a V8 is part of what first drew so many people to the sport,” he said.
The proposal comes amid efforts by the FIA and FOM to reinforce their collaboration following the signing of the Concorde Governance Agreement with all 11 Formula One teams last December. The agreement establishes the championship’s governance structure until 2030.
Meanwhile, the FIA has strengthened its long-term commitments to other major motorsport championships, including Formula E, the World Rally Championship and the World Endurance Championship.
These initiatives include an agreement with the Automobile Club de l’Ouest aimed at supporting the continued development and expansion of endurance racing over the next decade.
