Honda opposes FIA’s plan to bring back V8 engines in Formula 1 by 2029. Honda opposes the FIA’s plan to bring back V8 engines in F1.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem is advocating for the return of V8 engines in Formula 1, but Honda strongly opposes this idea. Recently, discussions have emerged about the possibility of reintroducing V8 engines to F1, which would reverse the recent trends established by the current technical regulations. However, major car manufacturers have voiced their disagreement with this proposal, which the FIA president aims to implement by 2029. Koji Watanabe, the Director of Honda’s Formula 1 project, has made it clear that Honda intends to maintain its focus on electrification.

With the upcoming regulatory changes set for 2026, the internal combustion engine will contribute to only 50% of the total power output in Formula 1 power units. By the following year, the electrical component is expected to play an even more critical and decisive role in the overall performance and functionality of the hybrid power units. Reversing this direction and returning to V8 combustion engines would present a major challenge and complex dilemma for the manufacturers.

Honda’s Opposition to V8 Engines

The historic Japanese manufacturer Honda has openly declared its opposition to the reintroduction of V8 engines in Formula 1. Honda is committed to working alongside Aston Martin, where they reunite with renowned aerodynamicist Adrian Newey. Koji Watanabe emphasized that Honda’s main contact with the team is through Andy Cowell, the Aston Martin Team Principal.

Honda’s stance remains firm, with a clear desire for Formula 1 to continue being the pinnacle of motorsport. They intend to keep discussing which type of power unit best suits this goal. Honda believes that electrification is a fundamental element to advancing toward a sustainable future in motorsport.

The strategic direction for Formula 1’s power units has been and will continue to be discussed within the FIA’s F1 Commission. At present, it is evident that the push to bring back V8 engines is strongly championed by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. In several interviews, Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has also expressed interest in returning to internal combustion engines. The development and integration of sustainable fuels will play a crucial role in shaping the future of engine regulations in the sport.