Horner supports V10 comeback in F1 sound debate

Red Bull boss supports potential V10 comeback amid discussions on F1's future power units

Christian Horner has voiced support for the possible return of V10 engines to Formula 1, citing the "purist" in him that misses the iconic sound that once defined the sport.

The Red Bull team principal's comments come amid growing discussions about F1's engine future beyond the 2026 regulations.

FIA exploring V10 possibilities

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem recently expressed his desire to bring back "roaring" V10 engines to Formula 1, with the crucial caveat that they would run on sustainable fuel.

This has progressed beyond mere talk, with the FIA confirming to PlanetF1.com that a dedicated working group will be established.

"We are engaged in discussions with a number of stakeholders to determine the future technical direction of F1 beyond the 2026 regulatory cycle," the FIA told PlanetF1.com.

The governing body emphasized that environmental concerns and cost containment would remain central to any potential engine formula change.

They clarified their current focus remains on the 2026 regulations while simultaneously planning for the sport's longer-term future.

Sustainable fuels creating new possibilities

Horner believes the advancement of sustainable fuels opens up fresh opportunities for Formula 1's power unit direction.

The Red Bull boss expressed concerns about the complexity and cost of the upcoming 2026 power units.

"Personally, from a sporting perspective, looking at what the future engine in Formula 1 should be beyond this next generation, I think, particularly with the way that sustainable fuel is going in, [it] does open up all kinds of opportunities,"

Horner said.

The current and upcoming F1 power units feature V6 hybrid technology with increased electrification.

While technologically advanced, these units have been criticized for their muted sound compared to their predecessors.

Balancing nostalgia with modern demands

The potential V10 return would represent a significant shift in F1's technical direction.

The sport last featured V10 engines in the early 2000s, an era fondly remembered by many fans for its distinctive engine note.

"I think the purist in me would love to go back to a V10 that was done responsibly with sustainable fuel, that reintroduced the sound of Grand Prix racing,"

Horner explained.

His comments reflect a growing sentiment within F1 that the sport must balance its technological advancement and environmental commitments with the visceral experience that attracted many fans in the first place.

Formula 1 has already secured new manufacturers like Audi and General Motors' Cadillac brand under its current technical roadmap.

Any potential change to V10 engines would only come after the 2026-2030 regulatory cycle, giving the sport time to thoroughly evaluate all options.

Horner concluded his thoughts by describing the V10 concept as "interesting" and "one to certainly look for, for after this current set of regs."