FIA Confirms Study Into Return of In-Race Refuelling

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has confirmed the governing body is actively studying the potential return of in-race refuelling alongside a broader overhaul of Formula 1's future regulations. The proposal is being evaluated in tandem with plans to reintroduce V8 engines, significantly lighter chassis, and an independent engine supplier for the next regulatory cycle.

Why it matters:

A return to refuelling would fundamentally alter race strategy and car design, moving away from the tyre-only stop format that has defined Grand Prix racing since 2010. The discussions signal a clear intent to simplify F1's technical blueprint, potentially lowering barriers for new manufacturers while changing the competitive calculus for teams on Sunday afternoons.

The details:

• Ben Sulayem told The Race that the FIA is modeling various fuel-load scenarios, including starting weights and whether mandatory pit stops for fuel would be required.
• The refuelling era (1994–2009) produced infamous moments like Jos Verstappen's 1994 German Grand Prix pit-fire, but the FIA president insists modern implementation would address safety concerns.
• Engine overhaul: The V8 proposal aims to strip out much of the current hybrid complexity, cutting car weight by an estimated 100kg and reducing development costs.
• Independent supplier: A separate engine supplier is envisioned to reduce manufacturer leverage over customer teams and level the playing field.
• Manufacturer interest: Ben Sulayem believes lower costs could entice more OEMs to enter the sport, noting growing team interest in building their own power units.

What's next:

Nothing is set in stone. The FIA stresses that all proposals remain under evaluation, with no decisions finalized. As the 2026 regulations bed in during the current season, the coming months will determine whether these nostalgic yet transformative ideas evolve into concrete rules for the next generation of Formula 1.