The growing debate over Formula 1’s future engine regulations could eventually lead to one of the sport’s most intriguing developments: a McLaren-built power unit.
As support continues to increase for FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s proposal to reintroduce V8 engines around 2030 or 2031, discussions are no longer limited to technical regulations. The prospect of simpler and potentially less expensive power units has also sparked speculation about new manufacturers entering Formula 1, a championship that has become increasingly attractive thanks to its remarkable commercial growth and expanding global audience.
Could McLaren become an engine manufacturer?
The possibility of McLaren developing its own Formula 1 engine was first raised publicly by Mohammed Ben Sulayem during the Miami Grand Prix weekend.
“I believe that when we introduce it, McLaren will use its own engine,” Ben Sulayem said. “They won’t need to rely on anyone else. The reason they do so now is because of the complexity of the current project.”
The FIA president’s comments immediately fueled speculation about whether McLaren could follow a path similar to other teams that have transformed themselves into full-scale constructors, taking responsibility not only for the chassis but also for the power unit.
Zak Brown confirms McLaren would consider the option
Those suggestions were later reinforced by McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown, who acknowledged that the team would seriously evaluate the possibility under the right circumstances.
Speaking as reported by Sports Business Journal, Brown explained that any decision would ultimately depend on the financial viability of the future engine formula.
“If a financially sustainable formula were presented to us, then we would consider it, along with the technology involved,” Brown said. “That being said, we are happy with Mercedes, but we would evaluate a proposal if it made sense from a financial perspective.”
Brown’s comments highlight the key factor behind any potential McLaren power unit project. While the team remains highly satisfied with its long-standing partnership with Mercedes, a future V8-based engine formula could significantly reduce the complexity and development costs associated with modern Formula 1 power units.
Such a scenario could make it more realistic for teams like McLaren to consider entering the engine manufacturing arena. The current generation of hybrid power units requires enormous investments in technology, infrastructure and specialist expertise, creating barriers that only major manufacturers have been able to overcome.
If Formula 1 ultimately moves toward a simpler V8 hybrid formula, the landscape could change dramatically. Not only could existing manufacturers benefit from lower costs, but new engine suppliers might also be encouraged to join the championship, increasing competition and diversifying the grid.
For now, the idea remains a long-term possibility rather than a concrete project. However, with influential figures like Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Zak Brown openly discussing the concept, the prospect of seeing a McLaren-branded Formula 1 engine in the future no longer seems as far-fetched as it once did.
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