Jun.1 (GMM) Cadillac and Formula 1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali have added fresh support to growing calls for a return to V8 engines in the near future.
The debate comes as Formula 1 continues to wrestle with criticism of the current regulations, with many drivers unhappy about the heavy reliance on battery deployment and energy management.
Cadillac parent company General Motors is among those encouraged by the direction of the discussion. GM president Mark Reuss said the American giant would welcome a future V8 formula.
“We know how to make V8 engines,” Reuss said at the Indycar race in Detroit.
“We have a long history there with the GTP, GTD Pro, and we make those engines right here in Michigan. We’re thrilled with this opportunity in Formula 1.”
At the same time, Reuss stressed that Cadillac remains fully committed to its existing Formula 1 engine program.
“We’re delving deeper into the 2.4-litre twin-turbo V6s for 2028,” he said.
“I don’t see that changing because we’ve all invested, and it’s great.”
The comments are notable because Cadillac was admitted to Formula 1 on the basis that it would eventually become a full power-unit manufacturer rather than simply remain a Ferrari customer team.
General Motors established its Formula 1 engine division in North Carolina last year, headed by veteran engineer Russ O’Blenes, and already participates in engine manufacturer meetings despite not yet supplying its own unit.
A switch to a simpler V8 formula could significantly ease Cadillac’s path to becoming a full works manufacturer.
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali is also increasingly vocal about the idea.
Speaking to L’Equipe, the former Ferrari boss suggested a future built around sustainable fuels and combustion engines would better reflect the sport’s DNA.
“Personally, I see a future where green fuels will play a central role, changing the current balance with the electric part and restoring centrality to the internal combustion engine,” Domenicali said.
“This is the foundation of motorsport.”
Domenicali believes such a move would also allow Formula 1 to address concerns about the size and weight of the current generation of cars.
“It would give us the opportunity to drastically reduce overall weight, returning to having more agile and compact cars that can be pushed to maximum performance,” he said.
The Italian is convinced traditional fans – the so-called ‘purists’ – would approve.
“I’m convinced that this evolution will make the most traditional enthusiasts happy,” Domenicali added.
Support for V8 engines has grown rapidly in recent weeks, with FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem also backing a return to simpler, lighter and louder power units by 2030 or 2031.
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