After an initial period in which differing visions were not uncommon, Stefano Domenicali confirmed in an exclusive interview with Motorsport.com that the commercial rights holder of Formula 1, Formula One Management (FOM), and the governing body, the FIA, are now fully aligned and working in harmony toward the same objectives. But what has actually changed behind the scenes?
The 2026 Formula 1 season has only just begun, yet discussions are already underway behind closed doors regarding possible adjustments to address critical areas that have shown room for improvement. At the same time, the sport’s leadership is also looking much further ahead. As previously discussed, towards 2031 there is growing interest in designing a regulatory framework that continues to engage all manufacturers while remaining resilient enough not to be dictated by market fluctuations.
In the event of a shift in the automotive industry or another sector-wide crisis—similar to the Dieselgate scandal that significantly impacted Volkswagen’s motorsport programme—it becomes clear that Formula 1 needs a built-in protection mechanism. Such a system would preserve technical relevance and collaboration with major manufacturers, while ensuring that the sport is not overly dependent on their strategic priorities or commercial decisions.
This approach runs on two parallel tracks. Formula 1 needs manufacturers, but manufacturers also need Formula 1. The top category of motorsport remains the ultimate platform for technological development, innovation, and brand visibility. However, looking ahead and considering the lessons learned from the 2026 regulations, changes are inevitable.
There is growing agreement on the direction of the future engine
The idea of returning to a V8 engine from 2031, combined with a small KERS system to retain a hybrid element, is becoming increasingly plausible. According to Stefano Domenicali, the decision regarding the future power unit must be taken this year, as planning the next technical cycle in advance is essential. Designing a new power unit requires significant time and resources, making early direction-setting a crucial step for the sport.
This concept is also gaining support from drivers and fans, and to some extent even within the FIA itself. The idea of reintroducing a V10 engine had already been floated by the FIA President earlier last year, triggering a series of meetings dedicated to future power unit concepts.
However, after a lukewarm response from new manufacturers such as Audi regarding any attempt to shorten the current cycle—which would have required a super-majority due to the scale of investment needed—it was decided to postpone further discussions until after the start of the season, focusing instead entirely on the 2026 regulations.
At the time, such ideas may have seemed distant. However, as Stefano Domenicali confirmed in an exclusive interview with Motorsport.com, there now appears to be broader consensus on the future direction of the sport, reflecting also the current reality of the automotive industry, where the push toward full electrification has slowed down.
“I honestly believe—and of course it is for the FIA to propose this—that I see a future with sustainable fuels at the centre, with a different balance between electrification and a strong internal combustion engine. This is motorsport. It will allow us to save a lot of weight, with a lighter, smaller car that you can really push to the limit. So this is the direction that I believe should make the purists happier,” Stefano Domenicali told Motorsport.com.
There is now greater alignment without role overlap
This is one of the areas where Formula One Management (FOM) and the FIA are now aligned, and over time this has become more the rule than the exception. It cannot be denied that the relationship between FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and the commercial rights holder initially got off to a difficult start in 2021, with tensions occasionally surfacing through indirect exchanges.
It is also true that the management style of the current FIA President, recently re-elected, initially caused frustration within parts of the Formula 1 paddock. This included drivers, who were unhappy with decisions such as restrictions on language and jewellery, as well as several high-profile departures within the governing body’s leadership structure.
Although complete alignment is rarely possible in any organisational structure, the past 24 months have seen a clear improvement in relations between the FIA and FOM. A more stable working relationship has emerged, built on mutual trust in key areas. This has allowed both sides to move forward without the risk of internal friction disrupting the sport’s agenda.
This improved cooperation has been acknowledged by Stefano Domenicali himself, who explained that communication between the parties is now clearer and more efficient, with a better understanding of each other’s roles and responsibilities, without the overlaps seen in the past:
“What I can say is that the relationship with the FIA President and the FIA is very positive. We know that we are complementary in this sport. We will never do the role of the FIA, just as the FIA will never do the role of the commercial rights holder,” he said.
“Without the volunteers who come to the track, a billion-dollar sport would not be possible. That is why we must ensure there is enormous respect for them and that they are given everything they need. It is a matter of trust. It is a matter of having a clear direction for where we want to take this sport. I believe we are demonstrating that through actions.”
The role of the new Concorde Agreement in supporting growth
“There has been such significant growth in such a short time that our main focus is ensuring that the legs of the table are strong enough to support it. This means the entire ecosystem: promoters, broadcasters, partners, teams, the FIA. All of us,” Stefano Domenicali explained.
“It is about understanding each other better. There has been a learning curve that we have gone through, and now we are in a situation where the direction is very clear. There is trust, without doubt. And that is good for the sport. At least, I am convinced of that.”
A key turning point has been the new Concorde Agreement signed in 2025, which has helped resolve several unresolved issues, including how to support the sport’s rapid growth. While the exact details remain confidential, it is understood that the FIA will receive increased funding to improve its infrastructure, train race control staff, and support stewards, who currently operate on a voluntary basis.
This strengthening benefits both the FIA and Formula 1. Having a governing body capable of responding effectively to the sport’s needs and providing reliability is a major advantage for the entire system.
Stefano Domenicali has also acknowledged the need for a more professional stewarding structure, rather than relying solely on volunteers as is currently the case. The hope is that the new agreement will contribute to a stronger federation:
“I believe the expectation is that we need a stronger federation. The sport needs a strong president who gives the FIA the direction to manage the sporting side for which it is responsible,” added the Formula 1 CEO.
“It is clear that without the volunteers who come to the track, a billion-dollar sport would not be possible. That is why we must ensure there is enormous respect for them and that they are given everything they need so they continue to be attracted in the right way and receive the respect they deserve. In a World Cup final, you need the best referee.”
“We have a World Cup final every weekend, so we need the best referees, who give drivers and everyone else the confidence that what is decided is the right decision. Whatever investment is necessary, we are there to help and support, because we know that if this element disappears, the credibility of the sport disappears.”
Ultimately, both sides share the same final objective: ensuring that Formula 1’s rapid growth remains sustainable, credible, and capable of standing the test of time in an ever-changing global landscape.
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