Toto Wolff says Formula 1 made the right call hitting pause on V10 talks, focusing instead on 2026’s hybrid era first.
Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff supports Formula 1’s decision to step back and take a breather when it comes to future engine plans—especially talk of a return to V10s.
There’s been growing buzz, fueled in part by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, about reviving the classic high-revving V10 engines. But after recent discussions in Bahrain, it was agreed that tearing up the incoming 2026 engine rules wouldn’t be realistic.
Instead, the sport is sticking to its hybrid path for now. A new engine concept—still partly electric—could arrive as early as 2029, or more likely around 2031, depending on how well the 2026 regulations perform once they kick in.
Wolff believes that’s the right call.
“This is exactly what we need right now,” he said. “Let’s pause and see how things go next year. F1 engines are incredibly complex, and moving to 50% electric power is a huge technical challenge.”
“But if we get it right, we’ll be pushing the boundaries of what’s possible—not just in racing, but for the car industry as a whole.”
Looking ahead, Wolff says F1 must find the right balance.
“We have to ask ourselves: What type of engine technology makes sense for road cars in the future? And just as important—what delivers the best show for the fans?”
“People often forget this, but both things matter. Road relevance is key for manufacturers like us—but so is the entertainment value. We’re keeping an open mind.”
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F1 Hits Engine Reset: Wolff Backs Pause On V10 Comeback
F1 Hits Engine Reset: Wolff Backs Pause On V10 Comeback
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