F1 Drivers United in Desire for V8 or V10 Engine Return, Says Bearman

Haas F1 driver Oliver Bearman has revealed that drivers across the grid share a common desire: the return of V8 or V10 engines in the next regulatory cycle. Speaking to media including RacingNews365, the Briton acknowledged F1's achievements with V6 hybrid technology and sustainable fuels, but stressed that a simpler, naturally aspirated power unit would be universally welcomed among competitors.

Why it matters:

The push for a V8 or V10 revival signals a potential shift in F1's engine philosophy after more than a decade of hybrid dominance. With FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem already hinting at a V8 return in the next rules cycle, driver support adds weight to the argument that performance and spectacle could take priority over extreme complexity.

The details:

• Bearman praised F1's work on sustainable fuel, calling it "fantastic" and a pioneering step that will eventually benefit road cars.
• However, he stated that if sustainable fuel can be used with a conventional engine, "I think all of us will be in favour of that."
• The current V6 turbo hybrid formula was introduced in 2014 and saw its biggest update this year with increased electrical power and fully sustainable fuel.
• V8 and V10 engines were last used before 2014, with the V10 era (1997–2005) widely regarded as one of F1's most exciting periods for sound and power.
• "The driver in me and the petrol head would love to have those great-sounding engines," Bearman added, noting he has never driven a non-hybrid F1 car but will soon get the chance.

What's next:

The next set of F1 technical regulations (post-2026) is still under discussion, but the FIA's openness to a V8 return, combined with driver consensus, could accelerate the move away from the current hybrid architecture. Bearman’s excitement to drive a non-hybrid car suggests the shift may already be underway in testing environments.