FIA could be about to make massive F1 rule change with 'serious' meeting scheduled
A major - and among fans, likely popular - F1 rule change could soon be introduced.
Ryan Smart
The FIA have arranged a 'serious' meeting amid reports of a potentially huge rule change to Formula 1.
F1 is already preparing for major regulation changes at the beginning of the 2026 season, as well as the addition of an 11th team in Cadillac.
The new regulations are largely related to engines, with sustainable fuels set to be in use, the removal of the MGU-H power unit component and a new 'push-to-pass' button which will give drivers a 'short burst of energy' when within one second of the car in front.
Each car will also be 30kg lighter, while there will also be smaller wheelbases and significant aerodynamic changes, which should all promote closer racing.
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In recent months, it has been reported that F1 are considering a return to the popular V10 engines - which were last used in 2005 - from 2026 onwards.
A major criticism of the current turbo-charged power units has been the lack of noise that they produce compared to their V10 and V8 predecessors.
If you're unaware of what the V10s sounded like, check out the below clip.
Now, Autosport report that the FIA are planning a meeting with F1 manufacturers at the Bahrain Grand Prix.
The exact purpose of the meeting is unclear, though it is claimed that it is 'expected to gauge whether there is sufficient support among manufacturers' over a return to V10 engines.
It is claimed that a 'viable path' would involve using the current power units for a further two years, before then switching to V10s from 2028 - which would represent a surprise move.
Whether Audi are present at the meeting remains to be seen.
The German car manufacturer will enter F1 in 2026. They originally agreed to join the sport solely as an engine provider following the announcement of new hybrid engines, but since decided to purchase a 100 per cent stake in the Kick Sauber team.
FIA single-seater technical director, Nikolas Tombazis, has stated that the sport's governing body are 'wary' of Audi going back on that commitment if V10s are introduced - even if they use sustainable fuels.
He told reporters last month: "I don't want to pre-judge that, because we are still in discussions. We are still in discussions with PUMs [power unit manufacturers] over the next few weeks, and so therefore I wouldn't like to prejudice it.
"We are very proud to have brought Audi to the sport, and we fully respect that and don't want them to reverse their decision."