Max Verstappen could get his way as F1 bosses consider 2031 engine change that he will ‘love’

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Amid all the frustration over the current regulations, Max Verstappen will be thrilled to hear the ‘current favourite’ engine ahead of 2031.

Verstappen is considering retirement from Formula One due to his immense frustration with the new regulations and what he considers a shift away from the core of racing.

Verstappen reportedly wants a return to pure racing, with a lesser emphasis on hybridisation and battery management.

The clearest indication yet that Max Verstappen could quit F1

Erik van Haren of De Telegraaf broke the story

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While some believe Verstappen’s comments are politically motivated, given that he isn’t thriving under the new regulations, he is far from the only person critical of the new regulations.

However, with a new set of regulation changes coming in 2031, Max Verstappen will be elated to hear what the current plans for the next engine formula are.

READ MORE: Damon Hill says 2026 F1 cars are ‘highly dangerous’ after Oliver Bearman’s Japanese GP crash

Formula 1 officials reportedly considering 2.4L V8 turbo engine for 2031 regulations

According to German outlet Auto, Motor, und Sport, talks within Formula One circles have begun about the plans for the 2031 regulations.

Despite the hope for a move away from hybrid engines, the introduction of the 2.4-litre V8 turbo engines is the most likely outcome for the regulation change in 2031.

“Behind the scenes, there is already intense discussion about the next engine formula, which is scheduled to be introduced in 2031.

“Theoretically, the hybrid component could be eliminated entirely. CO₂-neutral fuels would be sufficient to make series production sustainable.

“Theoretically, the path would also be clear for a comeback of naturally aspirated engines. However, manufacturers are likely to intervene.

“Because almost all series production cars now use turbocharged engines, the F1 engines are also expected to be turbocharged. The current favourite is a 2.4-litre V8 turbo engine.”

READ MORE: What many F1 ‘experts’ are now saying about 2026 regulations amid Max Verstappen complaints

Who do you agree with more about the 2026 regulations – Lewis Hamilton or Max Verstappen?

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Max Verstappen ‘loves’ V8 turbo engine, considered it part of ideal F1 car

In an interview with Grand Prix 24/7 back in 2023, Max Verstappen shared his frustration over the 2026 regulations and added that his ideal F1 car would include a V8 turbo engine.

“Formula 1 is really overcomplicating its 2026 engine rules and we need to take a serious look at it… From what I see from the data and on the sim and all the numbers, the 2026 engine package looks terrible to me.

“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.”

If the current speculation proves to be true, Verstappen could consider not retiring entirely from Formula One, but taking a leave of absence till 2031, when he gets his wish with the introduction of the V8 turbo engines.