Could bring back refuelling and independent V8 supplier, says FIA head

Formula One could reintroduce refuelling and an independent V8 engine supplier as part of plans to move to V8 power from 2031, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said on July 6 in London. He suggested restricting engine manufacturers to supplying only one team to curb their influence, while an “affordable alternative” would come from an FIA-approved supplier. Current arrangements already show imbalance: Mercedes supplies four teams and Ferrari three customer outfits. Ben Sulayem said naturally aspirated V8s would be lighter but would likely need more fuel, which could reduce the impact of weight-cutting if tanks grow larger. He added that refuelling is being studied, including “more electrification than 10%,” and is not yet decided. He cited a potential independent supplier model akin to Cosworth, to avoid “A-team vs B-team” leverage. Renault-linked Alpine chief Francois Provost said it is not considering reviving Renault’s Viry-Chatillon engine work.