Verstappen favours V8 return for Formula 1
The Formula 1 driver says a lighter engine, paired with limited battery assistance for overtaking, would make the cars more enjoyable to race.
What has changed? · 05/10/2026, 21:37 UTC
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Asked on Matt and Tommy’s P1 podcast what one aspect of Formula 1 he would change, Verstappen chose the engine, RacingNews365 reported on 29 September. He favours a return to a V8 or something similar, arguing that a lighter engine would make the cars more enjoyable to drive and race. [1]
Verstappen said he would accept a small battery for a push-to-pass system, provided it helped drivers set up an overtake without removing the need to make a move under braking. He contrasted that with Straight Mode, whose effect he said depends on battery charge, and recalled that DRS had been too powerful at some circuits. [1]
A V8 or V10 would be his ideal engine, Verstappen said, though he reckons a V8 is more likely today. He also preferred how the cars and wheels felt in 2020 and 2021. [1]
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