Ferrari shares insights on F1’s engine future, balancing V12 dreams and upcoming 2026 regulations, while keeping an open mind for 2031 changes.
Ferrari is one of the teams advocating for a return to V10 or V8 engines in Formula 1 in the long term.
After the Bahrain meeting between the FIA and engine manufacturers, it was decided to pause this project while awaiting the 2026 regulations. As a result, the door is now open for potential changes by 2029 at the earliest, or possibly as late as 2031.
What does Fred Vasseur, the head of Scuderia Ferrari, think about this?
“It was a positive discussion,” Vasseur said. “As a competitor, I’d love to see a V12 in the car for the sound and the experience. But for now, we have the regulations set for 2026.”
“We initially started criticizing 2026, but then we took a step back and said, ‘Okay, let’s calm down.’ Now, we’re talking about 2031. In a few minutes, the next question might be about 2040!”
“But we need to take this seriously. We’ve opened the conversation. I think this is probably the first time we’re discussing the next generation this early, and that’s a good thing. We need to understand what others are thinking because we all have different approaches. But we need to stay open. Honestly, the meeting was very constructive and positive. Everyone shared their opinions, and I think that’s the right approach.”
Last week’s engine meeting clearly showed that not all manufacturers are on the same page for 2026. Some teams might arrive next year with less competitive engines, and there’s talk of either an equalization formula or a delay to give teams more time to reach a competitive level.
“Honestly, I think it’s impossible to predict the exact performance level of the cars and engines next year. We’re not just talking about the internal combustion engine. The driving experience, the temperature, the thermal engine, and the battery will all be critical. And I’m not sure anyone knows exactly what the others are doing. You could be the best in 2025, but the key thing is 2026.”
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F1’s Engine Revolution: Ferrari Talks V12, 2026 Shift F1’s Engine Revolution: Ferrari Talks V12, 2026 Shift
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