Stefano Domenicali has outlined his vision for the 2031 power units: lighter engines, greater emphasis on the internal combustion component, and the use of sustainable fuels.
Formula 1 plans for the future
Stefano Domenicali’s agenda is not limited to addressing current issues. The Formula 1 CEO is fully aware that the 2026 regulations require some adjustments; however, precisely to avoid repeating the mistakes made in recent years, it is essential to plan well in advance for a long-term future, steering clear of potential dead ends. Among the most widely discussed ideas is the reduction—or even complete removal—of the hybrid component, shifting the responsibility for sustainability to synthetic or biofuels, while the debate remains open regarding the type of internal combustion engine, including naturally aspirated versus turbocharged configurations and the number of cylinders.
It is necessary to start early—indeed, immediately—in order to deliver a better version of Formula 1 by 2031. Domenicali himself is very clear on this point, expressing his preference for a lighter, simpler, and more cost-effective engine philosophy, in line with what Mohammed Ben Sulayem had already called for several months ago.
Domenicali’s comments
“We cannot afford to waste too much time, because time moves very quickly. We must be strong enough not to find ourselves backed into a corner; we need to decide as soon as possible,” Domenicali explained to Autosport. “Of course, we will discuss it together with the FIA. But it is something we must decide this year. It is obviously up to the Federation to make the proposal, but personally I see sustainable fuel at the heart of the future, with a different balance between electric power and the internal combustion engine. This is motorsport; it will allow us to have lighter cars capable of pushing to the maximum, and better racing. I believe we are moving in a direction that should make purists happier.”
The various criticisms surrounding the new regulatory cycle have led Formula 1 to consider bringing forward the next cycle from 2031 to 2030, although such a move would require a “supermajority” among power unit manufacturers. This is a possibility that Domenicali remains open to, but it must also take into account the needs of those who have already invested to enter Formula 1 under the 2026 regulations: “The cycle will expire at the end of 2030. After that, the FIA could develop a new set of regulations. We will certainly collaborate with the Federation on this front. Then it will be a matter of understanding whether it is possible to anticipate this evolution. This will be one of the topics we will address in our next discussions. At this moment, however, having a manufacturer willing to invest in Formula 1 is something extraordinary, something that cannot be taken for granted and that deserves our full respect. Let the FIA coordinate with its vision of what the right regulations to propose to manufacturers and teams should be.” – the former Ferrari team principal concluded.
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