McLaren may develop its own F1 engine as part of the V8 revival initiative.

      McLaren might eventually follow Red Bull's lead in becoming a complete Formula 1 engine manufacturer, but this would only happen if the sport reverts to simpler V8-style power units. This possibility arose after FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem mentioned it while discussing the governing body's proposed regulations for 2030 or 2031. The FIA is strongly advocating for a shift away from the current complex hybrid systems towards lighter, louder, and less electrically reliant V8 engines.

      "I believe that when we introduce it, even McLaren will produce their own engine," Ben Sulayem stated to Sports Business Journal. "They are currently purchasing engines because the current units are complicated."

      McLaren's CEO Zak Brown did not rule out the possibility. "If an engine formula is financially viable, then yes, we would consider it," Brown affirmed. "If something is presented to us that makes financial sense, then we will evaluate it."

      Currently, McLaren uses customer engines from Mercedes, with a contract extending until 2030. However, the partnership has faced challenges since the introduction of the more electric 2026 power units. Earlier this season, McLaren expressed frustration over the difficulties that customer teams face in fully understanding and optimizing the very complex hybrid systems without complete access from the manufacturer.

      These remarks also come amid a growing political struggle regarding the future direction of Formula 1's engines. "The racing is great," Brown asserted, referring to the contentious beginning of the new engine era in 2026. "If you didn't hear the drivers and were just watching on TV, the broadcast is excellent. There's overtaking, lead changes, and different leaders."

      Brown believes that the controversy is partially heightened simply because it is Formula 1. "Everything in Formula 1 is viewed through a magnifying glass of 1,000," he said. Nevertheless, he acknowledged that the regulations focusing heavily on batteries may have gone too far. "I think it's reached a level that most drivers don’t enjoy," Brown admitted. "It's still racing. We may not achieve a perfect balance, but there has always been management of rules, tires, and now batteries."