Alonso not keen on V10 revival: ‘We’re in a different world now’

Fernando Alonso has weighed in decisively against F1’s idea of re-introducing normally aspirated V10 engines into the sport, suggesting that such a move would steer Grand Prix racing “against its time”.

Despite being the only driver on the current grid to have raced in the V10 era, Alonso insists that F1 must embrace the technological advancements that define the sport today.

At the behest of the FIA, F1 has initiated a debate among stakeholders on a potential return to V10 power fueled by sustainable options that promise louder but cleaner racing and the nostalgia of a bygone era

However, many – including 2026 entrant Audi – have dismissed the notion as impractical, at least in the medium term, citing the immense resources already invested in the upcoming V6 hybrid changes with less than a year until their debut.

While Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have both proclaimed their openness to F1’s prospective V10 plan, Alonso has taken a much less enthusiastic stance on the topic.

Alonso: ‘We’re in a Different World Now’

“Obviously I love the V10 era and the V8 and the sound of those cars that we all miss,” Alonso admitted, acknowledging the allure of the engines that powered his early triumphs.

But the Spaniard quickly pivoted to the realities of today’s Formula 1.

“We’re in a different world now. Technology has evolved and we now have incredibly efficient engines that use about one-third of the fuel we used to.

“We can’t just go against our time and our hybrid era. We cannot forget how efficient the cars are now compared to the past. This is something very positive that we have.

To him, reverting to V10s would be a step backward, akin to undoing critical advancements. And he drove this point home with a vivid analogy.

“It’s like saying we could run without the Halo and make the cars more dangerous and [create] more adrenaline for the fans. It doesn’t make sense.”

Progress Over Nostalgia

Alonso’s argument hinges on the idea that Formula 1 must evolve with the times.

“We move on from certain things, and what we have now is a very good Formula 1 and a very good moment for the sport,” he said, highlighting the series’ current popularity and technical prowess.

The two-time world champion, now a seasoned veteran at 43, sees little value in chasing an uncertain past.

“So it’s difficult to invent something; we could go into the unknown. It’s difficult to know,” he mused, wary of disrupting a winning formula for the sake of experimentation.

Ultimately, while Alonso’s affection for the V10 era lingers, he deferred to the sport’s governing bodies and engine suppliers to establish the sport’s future road map.

“As drivers, we just want to race the fastest cars possible, regardless of the engine,” he said, encapsulating a racer’s mindset focused on performance over politics.

Still, he acknowledged the broader conversation, suggesting, “Maybe the fans have something to say as well.”

With Formula 1 enjoying a global resurgence, fan input could indeed sway the discourse. But for now, the V10’s siren song remains a distant echo, drowned out by the hum of hybrids and the march of progress.

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via X and Facebook