Formula 1 is seeking to become more environmentally friendly. Its goal is a net-zero carbon footprint by 2030. To help, the sport is switching to fully synthetic fuels for the 2026 season, while the powertrains will rely more on electric energy. However, V10 engines could be in line for a return.
V10 engines were last seen in the 2005 season. These engines were favourites to old-school fans, seeing the cars screaming around the circuits. This would be a popular move by F1, and the FIA president is backing the idea.
FIA president Ben Sulayem considering a return for V10 engines
V10 engines were first brought into the sport in 1989 and saw many titanic battles like Michael Schumacher taking on Mika Hakkinen before they were replaced for the 2006 season. As well as being fan favourites, the engines were lightweight but powerful. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has suggested bringing back V10 engines which run on sustainable fuels could be the way forward.
The 63-year-old said: “While we look forward to the introduction of the 2026 regulations on chassis and power unit, we must also lead the way on future technological motorsport trends. We should consider a range of directions including the roaring sound of the V10 running on sustainable fuel.”
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This would be a win on all fronts. If F1 can bring back the engines many loved while making it eco-friendly, this would be a huge boost for the sport. It would also be good for the teams. The V10 would be lighter than the current powertrains, being a big plus for the teams. Powertrains are currently the heaviest part of the car, the removal of which will give leeway to the teams.
How is F1 becoming more environmentally friendly?
F1’s main aim by 2030 is a net-zero carbon footprint. The sport is switching to 100% sustainable fuels for the 2026 season. Sustainable means the fuel is made of renewable materials such as plants or vegetables. These fuels will help reduce emissions and cut out fossil fuels. This is being rolled out in Formula 3 for the 2025 season.
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F1 currently uses hybrid engines. However, the 2026 concept means that it will be a more even split between the V6 combustion engine and the MGU-K electric motor. The electric motor will be more powerful to increase the use of electric power, with the engine power slightly decreasing. This will help the cars create less emissions.
Outside the car, F1 is changing up the calendar. An example of this is the Canadian Grand Prix, which is normally held in June and will be moved to May for the 2026 season. It will be closer to the Miami Grand Prix so teams won’t have to travel across the Atlantic on two separate occasions.
