FIA on future engines: “Formula 1 must choose a path aligned with road cars”. Technicians working in F1 are gearing up for a major challenge.

Technicians working in F1 are gearing up for a major challenge. In 2026, we will experience a significant regulatory change from an engine perspective. Having committed to becoming a fully carbon-neutral category by 2030 (not only in terms of motors but also regarding logistics and transport), Formula 1 has decided to use new hybrid engines powered by entirely sustainable fuel.

The other difference, besides the fuel, will also come from the use of batteries that will require a greater input. It is estimated that the split between electric power and that provided by the thermal engine could reach approximately 50/50.

Nikolas Tombazis: “We have to face a huge challenge”
The direction for the 2026 project is already outlined, but according to what Nikolas Tombazis revealed to some media, it is not yet clear which direction will be chosen for the future: “What will come into effect in 2026 has been well defined, but we do not know what will happen afterward. We are discussing it. There are still many options on the table. We could focus more on electric, on more sustainable fuels, or on hydrogen,” Nikolas Tombazis pointed out as recently reported by Autosport.

You might wonder what all this uncertainty depends on. Formula 1 is not just a sport. In 2026, new engine suppliers will come into play, and we will witness the return of Honda with the aim of finding an alternative to electricity as the main solution for production cars.

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At the moment, it is not clear if there really is an alternative, but Formula 1 and the FIA have made a commitment to seek it: “The underlying idea is to meet the needs of the engine manufacturers participating in the competition. We cannot go in a random direction; we must choose a path that is related to road cars. This is the main objective, and anyone who breathes the air of the paddock knows that there is a huge challenge to face,” concluded the head of single-seater-related matters at the International Automobile Federation.