Just in: Horner backs plans for controversial F1 rule changes… read more
The world of Formula 1 is abuzz with excitement as FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem recently proposed a rule change that would bring back the iconic sound of V10 engines. The proposal has sparked a heated debate among fans, teams, and drivers, with some welcoming the idea and others expressing concerns about its feasibility and alignment with the sport’s commitment to carbon neutrality.
Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull Racing, has weighed in on the debate, revealing his support for the FIA president’s plans. Horner, a self-proclaimed “purist,” believes that the re-introduction of V10 engines, powered by sustainable fuels, would be a step in the right direction for the sport.
“I think, inadvertently, we’ve ended up with a very, very expensive, very complex engine from 2026 onwards,” Horner said during an interview at the Bahrain pre-season testing. “I think the purist in me would love to go back to a V10 that was done responsibly with sustainable fuel, that reintroduced the sound of grand prix racing.”
Horner’s comments echo the sentiments of many fans who nostalgically recall the sound of V10 engines that dominated the sport in the 1990s and early 2000s. The last time a V10 engine was used in a Formula 1 car was during the 2006 season, when Toro Rosso received special dispensation to run the engine after the 2006 regulations changes mandated the use of V8 power.
While the idea of bringing back V10 engines may seem appealing, there are several challenges that need to be addressed. One of the primary concerns is the cost and complexity of developing new engines that meet the sport’s stringent regulations. The current engine regulations, which are set to come into effect in 2026, are designed to reduce costs and increase efficiency, but they may not be compatible with the re-introduction of V10 engines.
Another challenge is the need to ensure that the re-introduction of V10 engines aligns with the sport’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2030. The use of sustainable fuels is seen as a key component of this strategy, but there are concerns about the availability and cost of these fuels.
Despite these challenges, Horner believes that the re-introduction of V10 engines is worth exploring. “It’s an interesting concept and one to certainly look for, for after this current set of regulations,” he said.
The debate about the re-introduction of V10 engines is likely to continue in the coming months, with fans, teams, and drivers weighing in on the pros and cons of the proposal. While there are valid concerns about the feasibility and cost of the proposal, there is no denying the appeal of bringing back the iconic sound of V10 engines.
As the sport continues to evolve and adapt to changing regulations and technologies, it is clear that the re-introduction of V10 engines is a complex issue that requires careful consideration. However, with the support of influential figures like Christian Horner, it is possible that we may see the return of the iconic V10 engines in the not-too-distant future.
