FIA Floats V8 Engine Return to Formula 1 by 2029

Formula One could see a resurgence of the roaring V8 engines by 2029, powered by fully sustainable fuel, according to FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

While the sport prepares for a new engine era next season, the governing body's chief hinted in February at a potential comeback for naturally-aspirated V8s or V10s in the future.

The V8 engines were last heard on the track in 2013, before the introduction of the current 1.6 litre V6 units.

"The current engine is incredibly complex and expensive," Ben Sulayem told reporters at the British Grand Prix.

He elaborated, stating, "R&D is reaching $200 million, and the engine is costing approximately $1.8m to $2.1m. A straight V8 could change this."

He further added that "V8s are commercially viable as many manufacturers produce them, the goal is to reduce costs by more than 50% across the board."

Ben Sulayem also highlighted the weight advantages of the V8 engine, and the popular sound it would bring to fans.

"The V8 is becoming a reality for us. I'm very optimistic and happy about it with the teams. FOM are supportive, the teams are realising it is the right way," he said.

"We need to act fast. In about three years, hopefully by 2029, we will have something. Fuel is also very expensive, transmissions are very expensive, and we have to be very careful with that."

Ben Sulayem touched on the possibility of a Chinese team filling the 12th slot. He reiterated that he believes the sport needs more teams.

Regarding filling the 12th slot, he said, "The time will come when we feel it is right to open an expression of interest."

"We are not here to upset other teams. It won't be just go and do it for the sake of doing it. It has to be worth it for us. The team has to add value to sustaining the business of Formula One."

General Motors' Cadillac brand is slated to join as the 11th team next season, securing a slot after facing initial resistance from existing teams and Formula One, owned by Liberty Media.