F1 NEWS: Christian Horner Issues WARNING as F1 Considers…read more 

Christian Horner Cautions Against Potential V10 Engine Return in F1

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has warned that Formula 1 is too far along in its 2026 power unit development to consider reverting to V10 engines, despite growing discussions on the matter.

F1 last used V10 engines in 2005, with Toro Rosso utilizing a modified version in 2006 as the sport transitioned to V8s. Since 2014, teams have run turbo-hybrid power units with minimal changes. However, the 2026 season will introduce a major shift, eliminating the MGU-H, enhancing electrification, and incorporating active aerodynamics.

These updates have drawn major manufacturers to the sport, including Audi and General Motors, while Honda returns as a works engine supplier for Aston Martin. Ford has also partnered with Red Bull as a technical ally.

Development Challenges and Regulatory Constraints

The complexity of developing the new engines has sparked speculation about whether F1 should extend the current hybrid era before transitioning to V10 engines powered by sustainable fuels.

However, Horner, speaking to the media, stressed that it is too late to make such a dramatic shift given the significant investments already made into the 2026 power unit regulations.

“We already have a defined set of regulations for 2026, and while there are some limitations affecting racing and the spectacle, the chassis design is already being adapted to address these challenges,” Horner explained.

He emphasized that reconsidering the power unit regulations at this stage would be unrealistic. “It’s past midnight, and Cinderella has already left the building,” he said, indicating that any drastic changes now would be impractical.

The Excitement of a V10 Revival

Horner acknowledged that a return to V10 engines especially if powered by sustainable fuels would be thrilling for fans. However, he questioned the timing and feasibility of such a move, given how much effort has already gone into the upcoming regulations.

“As a fan, the idea of a V10 is exciting, but the real question is when it could realistically happen and what the transition plan would be,” he stated.

While a V10 comeback remains a fascinating prospect, Horner’s remarks suggest that such a move would be unlikely in the near future given F1’s current trajectory.