FIA Reveals Plan for Independent V8 Supplier to Cut Manufacturer Control

The FIA is drawing up plans for Formula 1's next regulatory era in 2031, with Mohammed Ben Sulayem confirming over the British Grand Prix weekend a proposed V8 return and an independent supplier model to loosen manufacturer control over customer teams.

Why it matters:

The move directly targets the political and competitive grip major automakers hold over partner squads. By appointing an independent builder—Cosworth has been cited—to produce an affordable off-the-shelf V8, the FIA wants to eliminate scenarios where suppliers threaten performance or political retaliation against customer teams. Cheaper power units could also tempt McLaren to build its own, though Renault has ruled out a return despite Ben Sulayem's suggestion that Alpine would join the fold.

The details:

• Independent Supply: An FIA-selected engine would ensure "neutrality, power and money" stay under governing body control, preventing factory teams from dictating terms to B-teams.
• Cost and Weight: The FIA is targeting roughly 50% lower engine R&D costs and a 100kg car weight reduction by ditching heavy hybrid systems.
• Hybrid Scale-Back: Electrification would plunge from the current 46% to around 10-15%. Ben Sulayem said this avoids the current problem of "drivers lifting off in a straight line" to manage battery deployment.
• Turbo vs. Battery: Manufacturers may have to choose between a turbo or a hybrid battery. Keeping both adds weight, cost, and stifles sound, though Audi insists a turbo is essential for its entry.
• Refuelling Return: The FIA is studying a refuelling comeback for the first time since 2009, weighing safety, an estimated $4 million annual cost per team, and the fuel-weight penalty of a naturally aspirated V8.

What's next:

With five years until these rules debut, the FIA must balance its vision of simpler, louder, lighter racing against manufacturer demands before the 2031 blueprint is finalized.