Formula 1 evaluating return to turbo-only engines to end hybrid era. Stefano Domenicali on the F1 rules and the continuation of the turbo-hybrid era.

A few weeks ago, the new FIA regulations that will come into effect from 2026 were officially announced, leading to various comments: now, for the first time since the official publication, Stefano Domenicali has shared his views on the rules and the continuation of the turbo-hybrid era.

In 2014, Formula 1 inaugurated its turbo-hybrid era, with a “perfect” mix that saw the development of the electric part of the engine used for the cars. However, with the new regulations, further changes will be made to the electric part.

Thus, on the current condition of the premier motorsport category, the F1 CEO expressed his views in an exclusive interview with the German newspaper AMuS. Among the most sensitive issues is the use of sustainable fuels and the possibility of a return to turbo.

“You always have to keep an eye on the overall political situation at the moment. There were times when we were asked to have total electrification. We remained faithful to the hybrid solution and then realized that with sustainable fuel we could show the world that there are other technologies,” Stefano Domenicali explains.

“However, it should not be forgotten that when the engine rules for 2026 were written, we could not do without hybrids. At that time, it was important for manufacturers to increase the share of electric energy. Today they might think differently because the world has recognized that there are multiple paths to achieving sustainability,” the former Ferrari team principal and current Formula 1 CEO explains.

Moreover, the development of technologies is increasingly under the scrutiny of major engine manufacturers who are becoming more aware that hybrid is not the only solution to achieving sustainability.

“As far as I’m concerned, it would be enough to run with a fuel that is not harmful to the environment. Formula 1 has already shown that it can rapidly develop technologies. But I am sure that if we can demonstrate that we can produce zero emissions, then we can say we have achieved sustainability and focus on other things. And the engines would have a nice sound again.” – the Italian manager pointed out.

“We don’t want to fight against electric vehicles, but rather open people’s eyes to the fact that there are other technologies to achieve the goal,” the Formula 1 chief executive officer concludes. But, certainly, there is still a lot of work to be done.