FIA President floats sensational idea – and F1 fans are buzzing!

The sound of roaring V10 engines might just make a comeback, thanks to a sensational idea floated by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.

In a move that could mend fences with disgruntled fans and boost his own image, Ben Sulayem has suggested exploring the possibility of bringing back the sport’s iconic engines, but with a sustainable twist.

The ear-splitting, spine-tingling symphony of V10 engines was last heard in 2005 and has since left a void that many fans feel to this day.

While the sport’s current hybrid power units are engineering marvels, their subdued hum has never quite captured the hearts of die-hard F1 purists.

A Roaring Proposal

Following this week’s widely successful F1 75 Live event at London’s O2 Arena, the FIA president took to Instagram to spark a debate on the sport’s future, suggesting that a return to V10 engines, powered by sustainable fuel should be considered.

“This week’s F1 launch in London has triggered a lot of positive discussion on the future of the sport,” he wrote.

“While we look forward to the introduction of the 2026 regulations on chassis and power unit, we must also lead the way on future technological motorsport trends.

“We should consider a range of directions including the roaring sound of the V10 running on sustainable fuel.”

A Strategic Masterstroke?

Ben Sulayem’s suggestion, while far from confirmed policy, could be a turning point for his leadership.

The FIA president has faced criticism in recent years, particularly from F1 teams and stakeholders questioning his decision-making and regulatory approach.

But this latest move positions him as a leader willing to listen to the fans – a crucial step in mending fences between the governing body and the sport’s global audience.

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His post also emphasized the importance of balancing performance with sustainability and cost control:

“Whichever direction is chosen, we must support the teams and manufacturers in ensuring cost control on R&D expenditure,” he added.

It’s a delicate balancing act. While many fans would welcome the return of V10s with open arms, manufacturers may be less enthusiastic.

F1 has long positioned itself as a technology-driven sport with road relevance, and hybrid power units have been a key part of that vision.

Persuading manufacturers to invest in a shift back to naturally aspirated engines – even with sustainable fuel – could prove to be a challenge given the automotive industry’s ongoing paradigm shift.

Can It Really Happen?

At this stage, the idea remains purely hypothetical. The 2026 regulations, set to introduce revised hybrid power units, have already been agreed upon, making a V10 comeback improssible in the immediate future.

However, Ben Sulayem’s willingness to put the idea on the table suggests a shift in mindset – one that embraces both technological advancement and the visceral thrill that made F1 legendary in the first place.

For now, fans will have to wait and see if this tantalizing proposal gains traction.

But one thing is certain: in an era of political tensions and regulatory battles, Mohammed Ben Sulayem may have just given F1’s most passionate supporters a reason to believe in the FIA again.

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