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FIA Confirms Commitment to Hybrid Power Units in Future Regulations
The FIA has reaffirmed that hybrids will play a crucial role in upcoming power unit regulations following a recent meeting held in Bahrain. This gathering brought together key stakeholders from Formula 1 to explore engine options for the future.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem led the discussions, which included considerations about potentially reintroducing V10 engines. However, the conversation leaned towards maintaining the current path, particularly regarding the 2026 engine regulations, which have already attracted interest from manufacturers such as Audi and Honda.
The meeting took place under the oversight of Ben Sulayem and included the attendance of F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, along with representatives from every 2026 engine manufacturer—both in person and virtually. Notable participants included teams from Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull – Ford, Audi, Honda, and Cadillac.
Consensus was reached among the attendees to temporarily shelve discussions about V10 engines, focusing instead on the hybrid regulations for 2026. According to a statement issued by the FIA, there is a strong agreement that “electrification will always be part of any future considerations.” This agreement sets the stage for further discussions aimed at shaping the engine formula for the 2031 season and beyond.
One potential future scenario that emerged is the possibility of developing a V10 engine complemented by a KERS system, although challenges related to weight might pose significant hurdles.
2026 Formula 1 Regulations
The meeting underscored a steadfast commitment to the implementation of sustainable fuels, which are set to debut in 2026 and deemed essential for future regulations.
The FIA also aims to advocate for cost reductions in the research and development associated with F1 powertrains. This initiative is intended to protect the series from economic uncertainties and fluctuations globally. “The FIA president emphasized that the intent of this meeting was to identify cost-effective solutions to ensure the long-term viability of both the sport and the business of Formula 1,” the statement indicated.
The dedication to the 2026 regulations is clearly emphasized, as the FIA technical department and various stakeholders have invested significant resources in devising these guidelines for hybrid power units that utilize 100% sustainable fuel. This effort has successfully attracted new manufacturers to the sport, reinforcing the belief that the chosen technical direction for the upcoming cycle is sound.
All participants have shown commitment to the 2026 regulations and expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming competitive season.
- All entities aim to collaborate on the technical evolution of the sport.
- A form of electrification will always be integrated into future considerations.
- The adoption of sustainable fuel is a priority.
- Financial regulations concerning power units will be reviewed as part of broader cost management efforts.
- Enforcement of these regulations will be prioritized.
Continuing discussions aim to accelerate the convergence of performance among power unit manufacturers, with strategies being proposed to prevent a scenario similar to Mercedes’ dominating launch into the hybrid era in 2014. Options being considered include permitting in-season development within the framework of F1’s budget cap for engines.
Source
www.autosport.com