The head of Formula One’s governing body has confirmed it – V8 engines are coming back to replace the current V6 hybrid power units to bring a louder noise, simplify components, and bring back the spectacle that the sport truly missed since 2013.

During the Miami Grand Prix weekend, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem made the confirmation, along with the target implementation in 2031. In fact, the switch could even happen by 2030, provided that four of the six power unit manufacturers - Mercedes, Ferrari, Honda, General Motors, Audi, and Red Bull - vote in favor of the change.

2013 - the last time V8 engines were used in F1

“It’s coming. At the end of the day, it’s a matter of time,” Ben Sulayem told Reuters. “In 2031, the V8, the FIA will have the power to do it, without any votes from the PUMs. That’s the regulations. But we want to bring it one year earlier, which everyone now is asking for.“

In 2014, the current 1.6-liter V6 turbo hybrids replaced 2.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engines. The engine formula has entered its third regulation cycle, where the power split between combustion and electric energy is almost 50:50.  This has significantly changed the racing, with battery management being key.

There’s a mixed reception to the new power unit regulation among fans, drivers, and even team principals in the Formula One paddock, forcing F1 to make tweaks regarding the cars’ reliance on energy harvesting, as well as start procedures.

For 2031, the V8 engines will still feature minor electrification and will run on sustainable fuels. The FIA president claims the V8 engines offer better road relevance than the previously proposed V10s, but still bring louder noise, less complexity, and lighter weight than the V6 turbo hybrid power units.