As the Formula 1 engine regulations are set for another overhaul next year, several drivers are looking forward to the potential return of the V10. New hybrid engines are set to debut in 2026, but both the FIA and Formula 1 have hinted that future considerations should also include atmospheric power sources and sustainable fuels. However, McLaren CEO Zak Brown is cautious about the return of V10 engines.
There is increasing talk in the paddock about a possible return of an atmospheric engine, provided it can run on sustainable fuels. Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff previously warned that such speculations should not undermine the current plans for the engine regulations. Zak Brown aligns with the Austrian and emphasizes that major manufacturers like Audi and Honda have already committed to the hybrid regulations, not to V10 engines. A short-term change of course would cause massive logistical and technical disruptions.
Logistical Challenge
“New regulations in Formula 1 have always been a major technical challenge,” he stated during the race weekend in Shanghai. “For 2026, it’s no different. As McLaren, we are prepared to race under any regulations, and I think V10 engines with sustainable fuels would be absolutely cool,” Zak Brown admitted. “That being said, I don’t see how we can reverse the current plans now. Audi is coming, Alpine is opting for a Mercedes engine – logistically, I don’t know how you would manage that.”
McLaren still has a partnership with Mercedes and, according to Brown, is well prepared for the new 2026 regulations. “We are very happy with Mercedes,” he confirmed. “They are ready for the new regulations, so we are not particularly worried about that. But if you want to completely change the rules again, you will face puzzles.” Brown easily dismisses concerns about the implementation of the new hybrid system. “The last time a hybrid system was introduced, there was some skepticism,” he recalled. “But that worked out fine. I’m sure the engineers are excited to take on this challenge.”
