F1: FIA Considers Return of V8 Engines for 2029, Reveals Ben Sulayem

Formula 1 could witness the return of more powerful V8 engines, using fully sustainable fuel, starting in 2029, according to statements by Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA president. The next season will mark the beginning of a new era of engines in the sport, but the head of the governing body suggested last February that a possible return to naturally aspirated V8 or V10 engines was being considered. V8 engines were last used in 2013, before the introduction of the current 1.6-liter V6 units.

The current engine is very complicated, they have no idea, and it’s expensive.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem

Ben Sulayem made these statements to reporters during the British Grand Prix of the weekend.

The FIA president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, is optimistic about the return of V8 engines to F1 cars. “Research and development reaches $200 million, and the engine costs approximately between $1.8 and $2.1 million, so, if we opt for a V8, let’s see,” he added. “Many of the manufacturers produce V8s in their cars, so commercially it’s correct. How much is it? You drop it. The goal is more than 50% overall.” Ben Sulayem also pointed out that the V8 engine would have significant weight advantages and that the sound would be well received by both nostalgic fans and the new generation.

For us, the V8 is happening. With the teams now, I am very optimistic, happy about it. FOM [Formula One Management] supports, the teams are realizing that it is the right path.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem

“We need to do it soon… it takes three years, so let’s hope that by 2029 we have something there, but fuel is also very expensive, and we have to be very careful with that. Transmissions are very expensive.” Ben Sulayem also spoke about the possibility of a Chinese team taking the last spot, number 12, something he had mentioned before, and said that he still believed the sport needed more cars instead of more races. “The time will come when we feel it’s right to express interest,” he said about the possibility of filling the 12th spot. “We are not here to bother other teams. It’s not just about going and doing it for the simple fact of doing it. It has to be worth it for us. The team has to add value to sustain the Formula One business.” General Motors’ Cadillac brand is set to become the eleventh team next season, a place earned after the initial resistance from the other teams and Formula One, owned by Liberty Media.