Particle.news

Download on the App Store

FIA Postpones London F1 Engine Summit as V8 Switch Lacks Backing

Lack of consensus among manufacturers reflects cost pressures from sustainable fuels alongside existing 2026 investments.

Overview

  • The 11 September meeting in London to decide the next engine era has been pushed back indefinitely after organizers concluded a deal was unlikely.
  • The FIA has been advocating a modern 2.4‑liter V8 paired with a simplified KERS‑style hybrid and sustainable fuels, with an earliest start target floated for 2029.
  • Positions diverge on architecture, with Mercedes, Ferrari, RB Powertrains and Cadillac favoring a naturally aspirated V8, while Audi argues for a twin‑turbo V8.
  • Preferred start dates also differ: RB Powertrains and Cadillac are open to 2029, Mercedes and Ferrari lean to 2030, and Audi and Honda want the 2026 rules to run the full five years to 2031.
  • A pre‑2031 change would require a broad supermajority including manufacturers, whereas from 2031 the FIA could impose its preferred rules if agreement remains out of reach.