P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Audi is not in favour of ditching the next generation of F1 power unit regulations for a return to V8s – Jonathan Wheatley has explained why.
Jonathan Wheatley explained that while concerns over the next generation of power units are growing in the F1 paddock, Audi does not support the idea of F1 readopting V8 engines. The Stake team principal will continue to lead the transformation of the former Sauber entry into Audi for the 2026 season as F1 introduces new chassis and power unit regulations. Despite increasing pressure to return to V8 engines with sustainable fuel, there are factions pushing against the new engine rules in F1. The consensus leans towards moving quickly to V8 engines from the current hybrid power units that have lasted over a decade, sparking dissatisfactions over power balance. The expected timeline for a potential V8 transition is now around 2031, which aligns conveniently with the end of the new chassis rules cycle. While the V8 proposals would use sustainable fuels like Audi’s principle pillars, Wheatley believes Audi will maintain its stance based on their core principles of efficient engine, advanced hybrid technology, and sustainable fuels for a long time to come.
