BREAKING: Hamilton Supports Verstappen on Potential V10 E…read more
BREAKING: Hamilton Supports Verstappen on Potential V10 E…read more
Lewis Hamilton has expressed agreement with Max Verstappen’s desire for a return to V10 engines in Formula 1, but with one crucial condition.
Discussions are underway regarding the possibility of extending the current power unit regulations until 2028 before reintroducing V10 engines, which were last seen in the sport in 2005. This transition would involve the use of fully sustainable fuels, aligning with F1’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
If adopted, this shift would mean abandoning the extensively developed 2026 power unit regulations, which include eliminating the MGU-K and significantly increasing electrical energy output. Several manufacturers, including Audi, Honda, and General Motors, have already invested heavily in these upcoming hybrid systems, making a sudden rule change both costly and complex.
F1 Leaders Caution Against Sudden Rule Change
McLaren CEO Zak Brown and Red Bull team principal Christian Horner have warned against reversing course, arguing that F1 has already committed significant resources to the new 2026 regulations.
Despite this, Verstappen has been vocal about his preference for a return to V10 engines, saying they would be “far better than what we have now.” He even hinted that such a change could influence his decision to stay in F1 beyond his current contract, which runs until 2028.
Hamilton’s Take on V10 Engines
When asked about the idea, Hamilton agreed that bringing back V10 engines could be a positive move provided it aligns with sustainability goals.
“The V6 engines have never truly sounded great,” Hamilton told the media “I remember attending my first F1 race in 1996 at Spa and hearing Michael [Schumacher] come through Turn 1. I was 12 or 13, and my ribcage was vibrating it was an unforgettable experience. Over the years, we’ve lost that feeling.”
Hamilton believes that if F1 can restore the excitement of V10 engines while maintaining its sustainability commitments, it would be worth considering.
However, he also pointed out the irony of past decisions. “They switched from V10s to V6s to cut costs, but developing these V6 engines has been incredibly expensive. The real question is whether they are truly more sustainable, given the reliance on battery packs. Perhaps focusing on sustainable fuels would be a better long-term approach.”
With opinions divided among key figures, the future direction of F1’s power units remains a heated debate.
