May 28 (GMM) Audi has emerged as the key obstacle in Formula 1’s growing civil war over its controversial engine rules – as CEO Stefano Domenicali openly backs a return to V8 power.
The sport is currently split over proposed 2027 regulation changes designed to reduce the extreme electrical dependency introduced under the controversial 2026 power units.
The FIA and Formula One Management now want a 60-40 combustion-to-electric split from 2027 onward, with longer-term plans already being discussed for lighter V8-powered cars by 2030 or 2031.
“I’ve always said I support this move 1000 percent,” Domenicali told L’Equipe.
“With cleaner fuel, lighter cars and V8 engines, we will rediscover the true essence of motorsport. That’s why I’ve always loved Formula 1.”
However, despite mounting criticism from drivers led by Max Verstappen, major political resistance remains behind the scenes.
According to Auto Motor und Sport, only Mercedes and Red Bull currently fully support the 2027 adjustment – with Honda reportedly open to compromise if broader agreement is reached.
But Ferrari and Audi remain highly resistant.
The German magazine says Audi in particular views a major engine redesign in only its second Formula 1 season as an enormous technical and financial burden.
The VW-linked manufacturer is reportedly planning a much larger overhaul for 2028 instead and does not want to absorb an estimated additional 10 million euro cost for an earlier redesign.
Ferrari’s concerns are slightly different.
The Italian team fears it would again fall behind in combustion-engine performance just as it is trying to close the current gap to Mercedes through the FIA’s ADUO assistance system.
Auto Motor und Sport reports Ferrari engineers are currently dedicating major resources to upgrading the existing 2026 engine package under ADUO rules before considering any future redesign.
To force through the 60-40 change, four of Formula 1’s six registered manufacturers would need to agree under the FIA’s super-majority system.
That leaves Cadillac potentially holding a crucial vote – although many insiders believe the American newcomer would ultimately align politically with Ferrari because it currently depends on customer Ferrari power units.
Despite the growing controversy, and F1’s top star Verstappen threatening to quit and drawing widespread attention to rival categories, Domenicali attempted publicly to minimise the scale of opposition to the current regulations.
“Very few people complain about the rules,” he insisted.
“We mustn’t forget that these changes were necessary, otherwise the manufacturers would have stopped supplying engines. We didn’t want to switch completely to electric vehicles, so we found a compromise to attract new manufacturers.”
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
There are motorsport events, and then there is the Indianapolis 500, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Next year marks Grand Prix Tours' 42nd Indianapolis 500 tour and our decades of experience and local connections provide exclusive access that few fans ever enjoy, including police escorts on race day, a Dallara IndyCar Factory tour, Gasoline Alley and Legends Day, the Driver Introduction Ceremony, and a private dinner with former Indy driver Derek Daly. Combined with excellent hotel accommodations, seamless event planning, and Grand Prix Tours' signature service, this is far more than a race weekend; it's a once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience. With tour spaces limited each year, we encourage you to reserve your place early for the 111th Indianapolis 500.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Formula 1 at its most iconic with an unforgettable trip to the 2027 Grand Prix de Monaco. Feel the excitement as the world’s best drivers race through the legendary streets of Monte Carlo, surrounded by superyachts, Mediterranean views, and the unmistakable glamour of Monaco. From incredible race viewing to carefully selected accommodations, Grand Prix Tours brings you closer to the action at one of the most prestigious and spectacular events in all of motorsport.
SHOW PACKAGES
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the ultimate test of speed, strategy, and endurance. Watch the world's top manufacturers battle for 24 nonstop hours in one of motorsport's most prestigious events. With Grand Prix Tours handling your accommodations, transfers, and ticket options, all that's left is to experience this unforgettable bucket-list race.
SHOW PACKAGES
Feel the roar of Formula 1 at its spiritual home. Silverstone is one of the fastest and most demanding circuits in the world, where brave overtakes, lightning-fast direction changes, and flat-out commitment separate the best from the rest. Combined with the electric atmosphere created by hundreds of thousands of passionate fans, the British Grand Prix delivers a race weekend unlike any other.
SHOW PACKAGES