FIA Considers Bringing Refuelling Back to F1: ‘This Is What We Are Studying Right Now’

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has revealed that, alongside the ambition to bring V8 engines back to Formula 1 under the next set of regulations, discussions are also taking place over the possible return of in-race refuelling.

Formula 1 refuelling return under FIA consideration

Although it has long since disappeared from Formula 1, there was a time when stopping to refuel and spending several seconds stationary in the pit box was a routine part of every race. The practice also led to dramatic incidents on occasion, including the fire involving Jos Verstappen during a Benetton pit stop at the 1994 German Grand Prix.

After being banned from 1984 to 1993, refuelling returned to Formula 1 between 1994 and 2009 before being permanently outlawed again from 2010 onwards, leading to the pit stops as they are known today.

Speaking to, among others, The Race, Ben Sulayem revealed that the FIA is currently studying different refuelling scenarios, including how much fuel cars would start the race with and whether drivers would need to make pit stops to take on more fuel.

“How much you start with, how much you fill, this is what we are studying right now. Of course, if you want to run the whole race, you have to have a bigger tank, or you have to stop. So this is something that we are going to look into.”

Addressing the safety concerns surrounding the possible return of refuelling, Ben Sulayem insisted he does not see it as an issue if it is introduced properly. He stressed that the FIA is still evaluating the proposal and that no decisions have been taken at this stage: “It’s not a concern if you do it in the right way. We are studying this and nothing has been done yet.”

Good News for Verstappen: FIA Eyes Return of Iconic V8 Engine

Ben Sulayem has reiterated his vision for Formula 1’s future, centred around a return to V8 engines, lighter cars and the introduction of an independent engine supplier. The FIA president believes simplifying the power units would make the championship more attractive while significantly reducing development costs compared to the current hybrid technology.

Under the proposed plans, removing much of the electrical component would also reduce the weight of the cars by around 100 kilograms, something Ben Sulayem sees as a benefit for both performance and safety. He also argued that an independent engine supplier would prevent manufacturers from using customer teams as leverage, creating a more level playing field across the grid.

The FIA president further believes that lower engine development costs could encourage more manufacturers to enter Formula 1. He pointed to the growing interest from teams in producing their own power units and suggested the proposed changes could attract additional engine suppliers in the future.

The Potential Return of Refuelling

The FIA’s consideration of bringing refuelling back to Formula 1 represents a significant potential change to the sport. The practice, which was a routine part of races in the past, was banned after dramatic incidents like the 1994 German Grand Prix fire involving Jos Verstappen. The return of refuelling would fundamentally alter race strategy and add another layer of excitement to the sport.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s comments about studying different scenarios for refuelling show the FIA’s careful approach to the proposal. The president emphasised that safety would be a priority if the practice is reintroduced. The discussions are still in early stages, with no decisions made yet about implementation.

Safety Considerations

The safety concerns surrounding refuelling have been a major factor in its previous bans. The FIA president has stressed that proper implementation would address these issues. The potential return of refuelling would require significant changes to pit lane procedures and safety protocols to minimise risks.

The history of dramatic incidents during refuelling stops has made many in the sport cautious about its return. However, advancements in technology and safety measures could make it possible to reintroduce the practice safely. The FIA’s thorough evaluation process reflects their commitment to prioritising safety in any potential changes.

The V8 Engine Proposal

The FIA’s ambition to bring V8 engines back to Formula 1 is part of a broader vision for the sport’s future. The proposed changes aim to simplify the power units and reduce development costs compared to the current hybrid technology. The return of V8 engines would create a more attractive sound and potentially make the sport more appealing to fans.

The reduction in car weight by around 100 kilograms would benefit both performance and safety. The introduction of an independent engine supplier would create a more level playing field across the grid. The changes could encourage more manufacturers to enter Formula 1 and increase competition in the sport.

The Impact on Teams and Manufacturers

The proposed changes to engines and refuelling could have significant implications for teams and manufacturers. The reduction in development costs could make it more feasible for new entrants to join the sport. The changes would require teams to adapt their strategies and car designs to accommodate the new regulations.

The potential return of refuelling would fundamentally alter race strategy and pit stop procedures. Teams would need to prepare for different scenarios depending on fuel loads and stop requirements. The changes could create more exciting and unpredictable races for fans to enjoy.

Fan Reactions and Expectations

The potential changes to Formula 1 regulations have generated significant interest among fans. The return of V8 engines would be welcomed by many who miss the distinctive sound of the sport’s past. The possible reintroduction of refuelling could add another layer of excitement and strategy to races.

The FIA’s careful approach to studying these proposals shows their commitment to making informed decisions. The changes could help make the sport more attractive to new audiences while maintaining its competitive nature. The coming months will be important as the FIA continues to evaluate the proposals and gather feedback from stakeholders.

Looking Ahead for Formula 1

As the FIA continues to study the potential return of refuelling and V8 engines, the focus remains on creating a more exciting and sustainable future for the sport. The proposed changes could help address some of the current challenges facing Formula 1 while maintaining its appeal to fans.

The situation highlights the importance of balancing tradition with innovation in motorsport. The FIA’s vision for the sport’s future reflects their commitment to making Formula 1 more attractive and competitive. The coming period will be crucial as decisions are made about the next set of regulations and their implementation.

The story of Formula 1’s potential changes continues to generate interest among fans and stakeholders. The possible return of refuelling and V8 engines represents significant shifts in the sport’s direction. As the FIA moves forward with their proposals, the focus remains on creating a brighter future for the championship and its participants.