Team leaders are skeptical about the return of V10 engines in 2028.

      “It’s approximately ten past midnight.”

      Top team leaders express skepticism that Formula 1 cars will be employing the old-school V10 power anytime soon. There are evidently ongoing discussions behind the scenes about whether the sport should acknowledge the misstep of the radical 2026 engine regulations and consider postponing the implementation of the even more electric-enhanced 'power units.' In that case, the FIA could simply introduce regulations for straightforward, cost-effective, lightweight, and completely sustainable-fuel V10 engines for 2028, reinstating the popular sound of high-revving, naturally aspirated engines.

      “The romantic in you is very much drawn to the concept of a roaring V10, provided it is executed responsibly using fully sustainable fuels,” remarked Red Bull's Christian Horner. However, some caution that such a drastic move could potentially lead to legal action against Formula 1 by Audi and Honda, who were enticed to join the 2026 lineup under the promise of advancing rather than regressing in engine technology. Horner acknowledges, “It’s about ten past midnight and Cinderella has exited the venue. Transitioning away from what is currently being diligently developed for 2026 would clearly be a significant shift.”

      On this matter, Horner and McLaren CEO Zak Brown are unexpectedly aligned. “I don’t really see how you can reverse what's already established, given the multitude of power unit changes currently underway,” he stated. “Audi is entering the fray, and Alpine is acquiring engines from Mercedes. Logistically, I’m uncertain how you can put the genie back in the bottle.” Alpine chief Oliver Oakes concurs, saying, “I think it’s quite a charming notion, but the train has already departed for 2026. I believe it’s more likely something in the future will be considered because it does sound appealing for Formula 1 to head in that direction.”