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With recent discussions ignited by FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem regarding the potential return of V10 engines, excitement has surged among Formula 1 fans and purists. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has now weighed in on the matter, stating that his team would be open to the idea if it becomes a reality.
“We as Mercedes, we're always open, whether that's in the future an 8-cylinder or 10-cylinder, naturally aspirated or turbo, energy recovery, whatever size, absolutely. We need to be open-minded. We're all racers. We like the engines of the past. And then you need to strike the right balance between what is exciting to us dinosaurs, screaming loud engines, and then the fan base and the audiences that are on the track,” Wolff remarked in the paddock during the Chinese Grand Prix.
Balancing Tradition and Modern Fan Preferences
The iconic V10 engines were part of Formula 1 from 2000 to 2005, a period that many fans consider the golden era of high-performance, screaming engines. However, Wolff acknowledged that while nostalgia fuels enthusiasm for a return to the V10s, Formula 1’s audience demographics have shifted over the years.
“And maybe that has migrated a little bit from pure petrolheads to more younger demographics, to families that are coming onto the track that haven't even been part of those years. And all of this needs to be set as questions as what are the objectives for a future regulation change in a few years,” Wolff noted, highlighting the need to analyze what future regulations would mean for different audiences.
A Data-Driven Decision for the Future
Wolff emphasized the importance of making decisions based on comprehensive analysis and data. Rather than rushing into a decision, he advocated for a methodical approach to determine what would best serve the sport in the long term.
“And then let's analyze that based on data and come to a conclusion that is for the best of our sport because this is the single most important denominator between the FIA, Formula 1, and the teams that we want to have the greatest product for our fans,” Wolff stressed.
Verstappen and Hamilton Weigh In on V10 Engines
Three-time world champion Max Verstappen expressed his enthusiasm about the potential return of V10 engines and hinted that such a change could extend his Formula 1 career.
When asked about it, Verstappen responded, “Maybe yes. In any case, it is much more appealing than what we have now.”
Similarly, Lewis Hamilton has also voiced support for a return to V10s, provided the technology can be made sustainable. Both champions agree that the excitement generated by these powerful engines could re-energize the sport and captivate long-time fans.
