Even though 2026 marks merely the start of the existing phase, talks regarding Formula 1’s upcoming power unit rules are already underway covertly. Various adjustments have been sanctioned for the present regulatory framework; by next year, the emphasis will move to a 60-40 split favoring internal combustion engines, and for the distant future, the racing community seems progressively receptive to more substantial alterations.
This was highlighted when Formula 1’s chief executive, Stefano Domenicali, conversed with Autosport during the April pause. The executive from Italy articulated that the FIA and F1 had granted original equipment manufacturers excessive sway over the present period, suggesting that the future format would likely diverge – possibly featuring an eight-cylinder engine powered by eco-friendly fuels and a reduced electric element.
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the FIA, advanced the discussion in Miami by asserting that the reintroduction of an eight-cylinder engine is “inevitable.” Ben Sulayem indicated that the FIA intends to pursue this course by 2031 irrespective, while also investigating options to accelerate its implementation by twelve months.
Ford demonstrates adaptability due to its extensive collection of propulsion systems
The natural next inquiry concerns the level of backing from car makers for such a transition. Although Toto Wolff has expressed Mercedes’ willingness to consider the concept – assuming a “methodical” execution and continued inclusion of an electric element – Ford, too, holds an optimistic view.
“Regarding forthcoming regulations, I believe the sport has wisely chosen to involve all relevant parties concerning key considerations. All aspects we’ve encountered or observed here are quite promising for us,” stated Mark Rushbrook, Ford Performance director, in a private conversation with Autosport.
“Discussions are in progress, and we are confident that appropriate choices will be reached. This will not alter our dedication to participating.”
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This particularly holds true for an eight-cylinder engine operating on eco-friendly fuels with a diminished electrical contribution.
“That would be [attractive to us]. Our observation of Ford’s approach to vehicle development, particularly as passenger car norms and demands have grown increasingly localized in recent times, reveals our use of pure internal combustion engines, various hybrid configurations with differing ratios of combustion to electric power, and entirely electric options.”
“We must be ready to provide these options across global markets, thus maintaining a comprehensive inventory.”
Rushbrook earlier conveyed that Ford had initially intended to discontinue manufacturing road vehicles solely propelled by internal combustion engines, but this choice was subsequently rescinded. Consequently, the American corporation asserts its adaptability during negotiations for Formula 1’s upcoming period.
“This provides us with numerous alternatives as we participate in various racing series, Formula 1 among them. We can still ensure the motorsport is pertinent to the products we engineer, produce, and offer to our clientele. We appreciate the V8 concept as we market many such engines. We also value an electrified component since we offer a wide range of hybrid automobiles.”
“Regardless of whether the split is 50-50, 60-40, or 90-10, we will continue to gain insights into the combination of combustion and electric power. We are quite amenable to this, also to assist with the on-track competition. Furthermore, it would not alter our methodology or dedication. We are content with the ongoing conversations about what lies ahead.”
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Ford’s participation in F1 is already yielding “beyond anticipated” results
Rushbrook further notes, nevertheless, that the present commercial landscape – notwithstanding all the critiques regarding the technical mandates – is predominantly favorable for Ford.
“We were pleased with the existing rules and with implementing the modifications,” he commented. “We continue to derive significant benefit from it. However, as previously stated, our diverse range of propulsion systems allows us to adapt to many different scenarios.”
Concerning both market worth and technical applicability, Ford’s engagement in F1 has, to date, fulfilled the expectations of the Blue Oval: “We have experienced greater returns than we initially imagined when we began three and a half years ago, and we continue to profit substantially from it.”
