F1 engine manufacturers set for Bahrain meeting with the FIA over V10 return

The FIA has scheduled a meeting with Formula 1’s engine manufacturers to discuss the potential return of the V10 power unit, sources have confirmed to Motorsport.com.

What initially seemed like a far-fetched idea is increasingly being discussed as a serious option, following FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s recent remarks about introducing V10 engines running on sustainable fuels in F1.

FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis confirmed to selected media at the Chinese Grand Prix that the governing body is indeed exploring the possibility of revisiting this iconic engine formula.

While no concrete proposal has been tabled yet, Tombazis did not rule out a return to the famously loud V10s — nor did he dismiss the possibility of it happening before 2031, when the next engine cycle is due to conclude.

This leaves significant uncertainty around the future of the more electric-focused V6 hybrid power units currently being developed for 2026.

Taking the next step, Motorsport.com understands the FIA has now organised a meeting with all current F1 engine manufacturers for the Friday of next week's Bahrain Grand Prix.

While the exact agenda remains unclear, the meeting is expected to gauge whether there is sufficient support among manufacturers for a shift back to V10 engines.

Audi CEO Gernot Dollner and Mattia Binotto, CEO and CTO, Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber

Photo by: Andy Hone / Motorsport Images

Audi has already made its stance clear. The German marque, set to join F1 as a works team, committed to the championship on the premise of hybrid engines with a strong focus on electric power.

Similarly, Honda’s decision to return to F1 was influenced by the 2026 regulations, though the Japanese manufacturer has yet to comment on a potential V10 revival.

Initial suggestions that the current engine rules could be extended by two seasons — with a V10 return targeted for 2028 — were dismissed as unlikely, with 2031 being seen as a more realistic introduction date, as F1's engine manufacturers have already been making significant investments in next year's power unit.

However, Motorsport.com understands that this idea is gaining momentum in the paddock. There is a growing consensus that continuing with the current power units for two more years, before introducing V10s, could represent a viable path forward.

The rationale behind this shift lies in the evolving direction of the automotive industry. Contrary to earlier expectations, the focus is now turning toward sustainable fuels rather than further electrification.

A V10 running on sustainable fuel would also be significantly cheaper to produce than a V6 hybrid that's more or less equally reliant on electric and combustion technology.