We have been discussing this topic for several days, and even this morning we returned to it once again. The possible return of V8 engines to Formula 1 has now become a very hot subject.
Several key figures have already expressed their views: Toto Wolff has given his approval, as have Cadillac and Ford, while Honda has not yet publicly reacted. Audi, however, appears more sceptical, with Mattia Binotto voicing the brand’s position. The German manufacturer entered Formula 1 precisely because of the strong hybrid component of the new regulations.
And Ferrari? As we have already highlighted in several analyses, Maranello’s approach is one of caution and observation.
This stance was confirmed a few days ago by Benedetto Vigna, who during the presentation of Ferrari’s quarterly results also addressed this scenario, stating: “We believe in the continuation of the three-motor propulsion system. We were already aware of these discussions with the FIA, they have been ongoing for some time. I think there is certainly a need to review things every five years, as is done with FIA regulations, but there will be no implications for road cars or for our strategies.”
Ferrari observes the balance of the new Formula 1 era
These words say everything, and at the same time they say nothing. Ferrari is confirming the impression that has emerged in recent days: a rational waiting approach to understand the direction that Formula 1 stakeholders will take — Ferrari included — and above all how the regulatory framework will evolve.
Ferrari already develops electric road cars and is therefore fully invested in hybrid and electrified technologies. However, it is currently clear that there is a deficit in the early phase of the 2026 championship, particularly in the management of the electrical energy component.
Maranello wants to understand whether, with the activation of the ADUO mechanism, it will be able to close the gap to Red Bull-Ford and especially Mercedes, which currently represents the benchmark in Formula 1.
The feeling is that Ferrari is waiting to see whether it can truly recover ground and position itself as a reference point again. If that does not happen, then Maranello could fully enter the V8 discussion — a technology it knows very well also from its road car division — and support, as proposed by Mohammed Ben Sulayem, an earlier introduction around 2030 or even 2029, instead of waiting until 2031.
Ferrari risks arriving late at the political table
In short, for Ferrari the matter is still open and the game is far from decided. The current stance remains rather neutral, almost cautious, with the team observing developments without taking a firm position.
The hope is that Ferrari will eventually clarify its position, because joining the negotiation table once discussions are already too advanced to influence effectively is a very risky strategy.
It is worth repeating one key point: world championships are not only won on track, but also — and often more importantly — in the decision-making rooms.
The strategic hesitation from Maranello highlights the complex tightrope Ferrari must walk between its technical goals for 2026 and its long-term brand identity. While Mercedes and the American manufacturers have already planted their flags in the V8 camp, Ferrari’s choice to remain cautious suggests they are leveraging their political weight as a wildcard. By waiting to see the full impact of the ADUO updates, Maranello is essentially ensuring they don’t back a regulatory shift that might accidentally nullify a hard-won technical advantage. However, as the article warns, the political window in F1 closes fast, and Ferrari’s “wait and see” approach could leave them reacting to a future built by their rivals.
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