F1 Power Shake-Up? V10 Engines Back in Discussion

V10 Comeback? F1 Engine Talks Set for Bahrain

F1’s engine future is up for debate as top manufacturers meet in Bahrain to explore a possible return to V10 power.

Could Formula 1 be on the verge of bringing back the roar of the V10?

The idea of reintroducing V10 engines is still very much alive within the F1 and FIA circles. And next Friday in Bahrain, key engine manufacturers will meet behind closed doors to discuss the sport’s long-term power unit strategy.

This won’t be a typical team meeting. The FIA wants a clear, unbiased conversation—so only engine manufacturers involved in the 2026 regulations will attend: Mercedes, Ferrari, Honda, Red Bull Powertrains-Ford, and Audi.

The goal? Understand where each player stands.

So far, Ferrari and Red Bull are reportedly backing a return to V10s. Mercedes has remained neutral. Honda and Audi, however, are said to be against any quick shift—particularly one that could take effect as early as 2028.

On the table are two main options: a naturally aspirated V10 and a turbocharged V8 with mild hybrid support. Both would mark a major departure from the current hybrid V6 era. But any change will also be driven by one key concern—cost. With the global economy facing uncertainty, F1 wants to future-proof its engine platform without inflating budgets.

One thing is already clear: the 2026 rules won’t be delayed to wait for a new engine formula. If the V10 is coming back, it will be under new terms—and sooner than you might think.

F1 Power Shake-Up? V10 Engines Back in Discussion. f1 2025 F1 Power Shake-Up? V10 Engines Back in Discussion