Audi opposes the return of V10 engines in F1
While F1 is considering the return of V10 engines from 2028, Audi is firmly opposed. The German manufacturer, which will be involved from 2026 onwards, is defending the hybrid and threatening to call its arrival into question if the rules change.
Could Formula 1 return to the era of roaring naturally aspirated engines? That’s the rumor that’s been circulating for a few weeks now: a possible abandonment of the planned turbo-hybrid project for 2026, with the introduction of sustainable-fuel V10 engines as early as 2028 or 2029. An idea that appeals to Ferrari and Red Bull… but one that Audi strongly opposes.
The brand with the four rings, which is set to enter F1 with Sauber in 2026, has made its position clear. « The upcoming regulatory changes, including the new hybrid power unit rules set for the 2026 season and beyond, were a key factor in Audi’s decision to enter Formula 1 », the manufacturer told The Race. In other words: if F1 changes course now, Audi might reconsider its plans.
Why is the FIA considering a return to V10s?
If the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) is considering such an upheaval, it’s primarily about money. Hybrid engines cost a fortune, and the FIA is looking for ways to cut expenses. Hence the idea of a V10 powered by 100% sustainable fuels, which would give the show a boost and delight old-school fans.
The problem? Changing the rules this quickly raises questions of fairness. Several engine manufacturers have invested millions in preparing for the 2026 hybrid engines, and a sudden shift could put some of them in a tricky position. « Above all, the obligation is to be fair, and people have invested a lot of money », reminds Nikolas Tombazis, director at the FIA.
A battle of engine camps
On one side, Red Bull and Ferrari are strong supporters of a V10 comeback. On the other, Audi stands firmly behind the 2026 hybrid engines, which feature a 50/50 split between combustion and electric power. The German brand has made these new technologies a key argument for entering F1 and for the development of its road cars.
And Mercedes? The German team is keeping an open mind. Toto Wolff, team principal, isn’t opposed to the idea of an engine change: « We, as Mercedes, are always open, whether it’s a future eight or ten-cylinder, naturally aspirated or turbocharged, energy recovery and whatever the size », he said during the Chinese Grand Prix.
A battle far from over
For F1 to abandon the hybrid project and switch to V10s, the FIA, the FOM, and four of the five current manufacturers would need to approve. For now, Audi’s opposition isn’t enough to block the project… but if Mercedes or Honda take the same stance, the situation could change.
Tombazis adds a word of caution: « If nine people are in favor and one is against and that person is being treated unfairly, we will always try to protect that person. We’re not just going to go with majorities and say “OK, let’s do it.” » In short: the FIA wants to avoid alienating committed manufacturers.
So, V10 or not? Nothing has been decided yet, but one thing’s for sure: the debates are likely to get heated in the coming months.
