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Helmut Marko has claimed that it is ‘certain’ Formula 1 will make a return to V8 engines in the future.
Prior to the 2026 F1 season, a brand new set of regulations was introduced, with cars smaller, lighter and more reliant on battery power.
Although the new rules promised better on-track battles, they were heavily criticised by fans and drivers.
Max Verstappen had threatened to walk away from F1 after comparing the new era to ‘Mario Kart’.
As a result, it has been mooted that changes could come in 2027, with engines potentially leaning towards a 60/40 power split.
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Helmut Marko is now ‘certain’ that Formula 1 will return to V8 engines
Speaking recently to Austrian news outlet OE24, former Red Bull senior advisor Marko has claimed that it is ‘certain’ F1 will bring back V8 engines.
In addition, the Austrian, who left Red Bull at the end of last season, stated that F1 will experience better racing by increasing the fuel supply.
Marko said: “I still watch all the races and all the Grands Prix live. But after the initial energy management debacle, I can do without the practice sessions.
“Unfortunately, that had nothing to do with the Formula 1 racing of the past. Although, as we saw in Miami, it has improved.
“That’s true. But I’m afraid not much will change by next year. All they’d have to do is increase the fuel supply. That would make a real difference.
“I think it’s now certain that V8-cylinder cars will return – with a certain amount of KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System). I hope that will happen by 2030 at the latest.
“As I said, you have to increase the fuel supply and give the combustion engine more weight. That can be adapted quickly. Then we’ll see significantly better racing.”
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What did Max Verstappen say about V8 engines?
Back in 2023, Verstappen had already spoken about the 2026 regulations, claiming the sport was ‘overcomplicating’ the 2026 engine rules.
The Dutchman also suggested things that he would change, one of them being the removal of the hybrid system and the return of V8 engines.
As per Grand Prix 24/7, Verstappen said: “There are a few things I’d change. I would definitely get rid of the hybrid. I love how smooth a V8 engine is.
“Yes, top speed is slow compared to now, but the pick-up of the engine, and the torque is just so smooth: the downshift, and the upshifts, so much more natural to what we have today.”
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