Sainz doesn’t like what he sees in Formula 1’s future

As Formula 1 prepares to usher in a new era of regulations in 2026, Carlos Sainz has voiced serious concerns about the sport’s trajectory – suggesting that the vision for the future is so uninspiring, it’s reignited his desire to see a return to the powerful V10 engines of the past.

Grand Prix racing’s upcoming power unit and chassis regulations, which promise a significant shift in F1’s technical framework, are set to run provisionally until 2030.

The reset will see a continued emphasis on hybrid technology and sustainable fuels in a bid to modernize the sport and align it with global sustainability targets.

However, crunch talks were held behind the scenes last week in Bahrain between Formula 1, the FIA and power unit manufacturers, amid growing discontent over the new hybrid specs and the perceived compromises in car performance and racing spectacle.

A possible return to V10 engines – last seen on the grid between 1996 and 2005 – has been floated as an alternative, though with modern updates like sustainable fuels. That idea has gained traction among purists, even if it's still speculative.

“I wouldn’t be too vocal supporting the comeback of a V10 engine if I liked what I saw from 2026,” Sainz told the media last weekend.

“But as I don’t really like what I see from 2026 in terms of what the car is going to do, the engine’s going to do, the way everything is going to work, I would say yes – I would like a V10 engine with a few tweaks to make it back sooner rather than later.”

A Future in Flux

The idea of reintroducing V10 engines as early as 2027 or 2028 was dashed in short order in last week’s meeting, as the development of next year’s engines has clearly reached its point of no return.

However, there’s still potential for major change by 2029 or beyond – something Sainz remains open to.

“But at the same time, it’s not fair to not give those regulations a bit of a chance, if everyone believes they are so good,” he added, acknowledging the need for a fair trial.

“But everyone seems to believe that they are not so good anymore - that’s why everyone’s talking about it again. So a bit of a strange one.”

• Read also: F1 manufacturers park V10 dreams, focus remains on 2026 hybrids

The growing discontent within the paddock underscores the uncertainty surrounding F1’s future, with Sainz noting the political nature of the decision-making process.

“Let’s see where it goes. It’s not up to me. It’s politics. The big bosses will decide,” he concluded, distancing himself from the ultimate outcome.

With a critical period ahead for Formula 1’s long-term identity, Sainz’s comments reflect a growing divide between technological ambition and racing passion.

With the cast set for 2026, only time will tell whether F1’s upcoming rules will deliver – or force a dramatic rethink.

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