Ben Sulayem says F1 could have V8 engines as soon as 2029

Sign up now: Get STs newsletters delivered to your inbox

Formula One F1 - Miami Grand Prix - Miami International Autodrome, Miami, Florida, United States - May 3, 2025 McLarens Lando Norris shakes hands with FIA president Mohammed ben Sulayem after finishing second during qualifying REUTERS/Brian Snyder/File Photo

Formula One could go back to using noisy V8 engines with fully sustainable fuel by 2029 at the earliest, according to FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

The sport is entering a new engine era next season but the head of the governing body suggested last February that a return to the naturally-aspirated V8s or V10s was being considered after that.

The V8 engines were last used in 2013, before the current 1.6-litre V6 units.

The current engine is so complicated, you have no idea, and it is costly, Ben Sulayem told reporters at the weekends British Grand Prix.

Ramp;D is reaching 200 million (dollars),and the engine is costing approximately 1.8 to 2.1, so if we go with a straight V8, lets see.

Many of the manufacturers produce V8s in their cars, so commercially its correct. How much is it? You drop it. The target is more than 50% in everything.

Ben Sulayem said the V8 engine would also have significant weight advantages and the sound would be welcomed by both nostalgic fans and the new generation.

To us, the V8 is happening. With the teams now, Im very optimistic, happy about it. FOM (Formula One Management) are supportive, the