Mercedes stays open to V10 return, but Toto Wolff insists the 2026 hybrid era must be respected and fully embraced first.
As the idea of reintroducing V10 engines to Formula 1 gains traction, teams are beginning to reveal their positions on the matter. A return could happen as early as 2028 or 2029, and it’s already sparking debate in the paddock.
Red Bull and Ferrari are reportedly open to the idea, signaling their support for a shift back to the high-revving, naturally aspirated power units that once defined F1’s golden era.
On the flip side, Audi has made it clear: they’re not on board. The German manufacturer is heavily invested in the 2026 V6 hybrid regulations and sees no sense in scrapping everything just a few years into their F1 project.
Honda has yet to make an official statement. The Japanese giant, while not starting from scratch for its 2026 engine, hasn’t confirmed whether it would backtrack to a V10 format either.
And what about Mercedes?
Team principal Toto Wolff recently addressed the topic—and his stance is surprisingly open.
“At Mercedes, we’re always ready to talk—whether it’s a V8 or a V10, naturally aspirated or turbocharged, with energy recovery or not. What matters is staying open-minded,” Wolff said.
“We’re all competitors and racers at heart. There’s no denying the appeal of old-school engines, the sound, the power. It’s part of our passion. But we also need to strike a balance between what excites us ‘dinosaurs’ and what speaks to today’s fans.”
Still, Wolff made it clear: next year’s new engine regulations shouldn’t be undermined.
“We have exciting times ahead. The 2026 rules, brought in to welcome new manufacturers like Audi, are a big step. We’ve worked hard to get here. That’s what we should focus on, not rushing into the future before giving this era a proper chance.”
“This is going to be a fascinating chapter for F1. Let’s embrace it, talk about its potential, and see where it takes us—before looking too far ahead.”
Mercedes Open to V10 Talks but Backs 2026 Rules
Mercedes Open to V10 Talks but Backs 2026 Rules
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