Could V10 Engines Keep Max Verstappen in Formula 1 Longer?
Max Verstappen has never hidden the fact that he doesn’t plan to stay in Formula 1 forever. However, one change could convince him to extend his career—bringing back V10 engines.
Verstappen’s Love for V10 Engines
Having grown up around the sport, Verstappen is more familiar with the iconic sound of V10 engines than many modern F1 fans. He has often expressed his belief that these engines provided a richer and more immersive experience compared to today’s hybrid power units.
The Dutchman has been open about his eventual departure from Formula 1, stating that once his passion fades, he wants to explore other racing series, with the World Endurance Championship (WEC) being a strong contender.
Would V10s Keep Verstappen in F1?
Changes to F1’s engine regulations could impact his decision. When asked in Shanghai whether a return to V10s might keep him in the sport longer, Verstappen responded, “Maybe, yes. In any case, it is much more appealing than what we have now.”
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem is a vocal advocate for the return of V10 engines, recently sharing his enthusiasm on social media. He expressed a desire to hear their legendary roar once again but stressed that any reintroduction would have to be sustainable, using renewable fuels to align with Formula 1’s environmental goals.
How Realistic is a V10 Comeback?
Despite Ben Sulayem’s enthusiasm, the feasibility of reintroducing V10s remains uncertain. A new engine formula is set to debut in 2026, with manufacturers already heavily invested in developing the next generation of hybrid power units.
Given the significant time, money, and engineering efforts committed to the current regulations, it seems unlikely that the sport would abandon these investments in favor of an entirely new powertrain concept.
Verstappen’s 2025 Season So Far
Verstappen kicked off the 2025 season with a second-place finish in Australia. He’ll now be aiming to replicate his 2024 success at the Chinese Grand Prix, where he claimed victory for the first time last year.
While a V10 revival remains a distant dream, it’s clear that Verstappen’s future in Formula 1 could be influenced by the direction the sport takes with its power units in the coming years.
