Ford gives emphatic backing to Formula 1’s V8 comeback plan

Ford has thrown its weight behind Formula 1’s evolving engine future, with Ford Performance boss Mark Rushbrook enthusiastically welcoming both the FIA’s proposed return to V8 engines and the planned regulation tweaks aimed at improving racing from 2027.

At a time when Formula 1’s hybrid-heavy direction continues to divide fans, drivers and manufacturers, Ford’s stance adds serious momentum to growing calls for a louder, more combustion-focused future.

And crucially, the American giant appears more than comfortable balancing that vision with its current hybrid partnership alongside Red Bull Powertrains.

Ford embraces V8 comeback talk

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem ignited fresh debate during the Miami Grand Prix weekend after revealing the governing body was targeting a return to V8 power units by 2031.

For many fans, it was music to the ears. And for Ford – a company deeply tied to high-performance V8 culture – the idea landed equally well.

“It’s great to see the FIA and Formula 1 already talking about what is the next set of regulations,” Rushbrook said.

“We are a stakeholder in the sport and we’ll share our point of view. But certainly, as a company that makes a lot of naturally aspirated V8s, we would love to see a V8 here.”

The comments are particularly striking given Ford only recently returned to Formula 1 through its partnership with Red Bull after a 20-year absence.

Rather than resisting a move away from extreme hybridisation, Ford appears eager to help shape what comes next.

Backing F1’s 2027 rule changes

Ford is also firmly behind the FIA’s proposed 2027 regulation adjustment, which would reduce the electrical dependency of Formula 1’s next-generation power units.

The FIA plans to move from the heavily debated 50/50 combustion-electric split introduced for 2026 toward a 60/40 balance from 2027 onward, after drivers repeatedly criticised excessive battery harvesting and reduced flat-out racing.

Rushbrook believes the changes are a positive move for the sport.

“It’s stakeholders voicing their opinions, decision-makers making their decisions,” Rushbrook said. “But I think that is a good step to help the racing and the product on the track.”

The proposed revisions could still create technical headaches, with discussions ongoing over fuel tank sizes, chassis redesigns and cost cap implications. But the overall direction has clearly won Ford’s approval.

Meanwhile, the company remains fully committed to its long-term Red Bull project despite a difficult opening to the 2026 campaign.

• Read also: Ford eyes Verstappen for future WEC Hypercar assault

“That’s what everyone wants, to be able to win races and championships,” Rushbrook said.

“We know it’s going to take a lot of work to get there. That’s part of why we partnered with Red Bull. They are racers, they’re committed to winning.

“Last year, what they showed, they were in a deficit, and they clawed back within two points of getting the championship for Max. We know it’s the right partner.

“We’re fully committed for all of our resources going to help that program.”

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