Former Formula 1 chief Bernie Ecclestone has endorsed a shift to larger engines for the series. He spoke at the Austrian Grand Prix in support of FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem and F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali. The proposed change targets a 2031 rules cycle that could arrive earlier.
Ecclestone called for a three-litre engine, saying he does not mind if it is a V8, V10 or V12. "I think it's the right thing to do," he told select media including Motorsport.com and Autosport.
The FIA wants bigger, louder and cheaper engines that incorporate sustainable fuels and a simpler hybrid system. Ecclestone believes manufacturers will back the plan once they are free from current constraints.
He also defended Max Verstappen's criticism of the existing 2026 power unit rules. "He was right criticising," Ecclestone said, adding that the regulations were unnecessary.
