The FIA is examining the creation of an independent engine for Formula 1’s customer teams, as part of the discussions surrounding the next cycle of regulations. The proposal aims to reduce the influence of power unit manufacturers over the teams that rely on their supply.
The project is part of the talks led by FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem to define the technical rules that are expected to come into effect in 2030 or 2031. Among the ideas already discussed is the return of V8 engines, in addition to changes in how power units are supplied.
One of the options under consideration is the creation of an “FIA-selected engine,” following a concept similar to what Cosworth used when HRT, Caterham, and Virgin Racing joined Formula 1 before the 2010 season. The goal would be to provide an independent option for customer teams that did not want to rely directly on a manufacturer.
According to Ben Sulayem, the measure would help prevent engine suppliers from exercising influence over the teams they supply: “There will be no control of Team A over Team B that receives their engines,” the official said, in remarks reproduced by Reuters.
The FIA president added that the initiative depends on the project’s financial viability: “If this is affordable, we will have an engine for the rest of the Team B, so that no one can exert influence over them and say: ‘Vote this way or we won’t provide a good engine,’” he stated.
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One of the options under discussion is the creation of an “FIA-selected engine,” modeled on a Cosworth-like approach used when HRT, Caterham and Virgin Racing entered Formula 1 prior to the 2010 season. The aim would be to offer an independent choice for customer teams that didn’t want to depend directly on a manufacturer.
Currently, in the 2026 season, Mercedes HPP provides power units for Mercedes itself, McLaren, Alpine, and Williams. Ferrari supplies for Ferrari, Cadillac, and Haas, while Red Bull Powertrains-Ford serves Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls. Audi operates its own factory, and Aston Martin maintains an almost official structure in partnership with Honda.
In addition to the discussion about V8 engines, Ben Sulayem confirmed that the FIA is also evaluating the possible return of refueling during races, a practice last used in Formula 1 in 2009: “We are studying refueling at the moment. It isn’t a concern if done correctly. Nothing has been decided yet. We are looking at refueling with sustainable fuel and electrification. Perhaps we could work with more than 10% electrification. We are truly still open to possibilities,” the official concluded.
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