Max Verstappen Says Return of V10 Engines Could Keep Him in F1 Longer - 'Pure Emotion'

Newsweek - Mar 20th, 2025
Open on Newsweek

Max Verstappen, the Red Bull Formula One driver, has hinted that he might postpone his retirement if V10 engines make a return to the sport. The Dutch driver expressed his emotional connection to the iconic sound of V10 engines and indicated that their comeback, even if slower than the current hybrid models, could reignite his passion for Formula 1. With his contract with Red Bull ending in 2028, Verstappen has been open about possibly leaving the sport if it ceases to bring him joy. However, the potential reintroduction of V10 engines running on sustainable fuels could entice him to extend his career, as he finds them more thrilling than current engines. Verstappen's comments were made during a press conference in Shanghai, ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix, where he fondly recalled the engines' sound from his childhood.

The conversation around the return of V10 engines is gaining momentum as F1 looks to embrace sustainable fuels in 2026, with an equal ratio of electric power and internal combustion. Christian Horner, Red Bull's team principal, also supports the idea, suggesting that sustainable V10 engines could simplify the complex and expensive new power units set for 2026. The potential return of V10 engines not only promises to evoke nostalgia but could also shape the future direction of Formula 1 by combining classic motorsport elements with modern sustainability goals. As Red Bull continues to develop its 2025 car, the implications of this engine debate could significantly impact team strategies and the broader F1 landscape.

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.2
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The article provides an engaging look at Max Verstappen's views on the potential return of V10 engines to Formula 1, capturing the nostalgia and excitement associated with these iconic power units. It effectively highlights the emotional connection fans and drivers have with V10 engines, supported by direct quotes from Verstappen and Red Bull team principal Christian Horner. However, the story could benefit from a more balanced perspective by including viewpoints from other stakeholders and exploring the broader implications of such a change on the sport's sustainability goals. The limited sourcing and lack of transparency in verifying ongoing discussions about V10 engines slightly undermine its reliability. Despite these shortcomings, the article remains timely and relevant, tapping into current debates about the future of F1 and engaging readers with its clear and accessible presentation.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The story accurately captures Max Verstappen's sentiment about potentially extending his F1 career if V10 engines return, citing the emotional connection these engines evoke. This is consistent with Verstappen's publicly known opinions. However, the claim about active discussions on V10 engines returning and their potential integration with sustainable fuels needs more concrete evidence, as it's not clear how widespread or official these discussions are. The story also mentions the 2026 F1 regulations involving sustainable fuels, which aligns with F1's publicized environmental goals, but lacks specific confirmation of the exact powertrain mix. The mention of Christian Horner's support for V10 engines is accurate, reflecting his past statements about the appeal of such engines when combined with sustainable fuels.

6
Balance

The article primarily focuses on the perspective of Max Verstappen and Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, both of whom express a preference for the return of V10 engines. While their views are significant, the article lacks input from other stakeholders, such as FIA officials, other teams, or environmental experts, who could offer differing perspectives on the feasibility and environmental impact of reintroducing V10 engines. This narrow focus may inadvertently present a biased view that favors the sentiment of nostalgia and excitement over a comprehensive assessment of the implications of such a change.

8
Clarity

The article is clearly written, with a logical flow that guides the reader through Verstappen's statements and the broader context of F1 engine discussions. The language is straightforward and accessible, making it easy for readers to follow the narrative. The tone is neutral, focusing on presenting Verstappen's views without editorializing. However, the article could benefit from clearer distinctions between confirmed plans and speculative discussions to enhance reader comprehension.

5
Source quality

The article relies heavily on statements from Max Verstappen and Christian Horner, who are credible figures within the F1 community. However, it lacks a diversity of sources that could provide a more rounded view of the situation. There are no references to official F1 or FIA statements, nor does it include perspectives from other teams or industry experts. This limited sourcing reduces the article's overall reliability, as it predominantly reflects the views of those directly involved with Red Bull Racing.

5
Transparency

The article provides some context regarding Verstappen's past comments and the general sentiment around V10 engines, but it lacks transparency in detailing the origins of the claims about ongoing discussions of V10 engines. It does not clarify whether these discussions are speculative or based on concrete proposals. Furthermore, there is no explanation of the methodology used to gather the information, which could help readers understand the basis of the claims and the potential for bias.

Sources

  1. https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/red-bull-driver-max-verstappen-wants-v10-engines-to-return-to-f1-5017889/5017889/
  2. https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/verstappen-agrees-with-fia-president-on-v10s-returning-to-f1-but-negotiations-must-be-private/10701759/
  3. https://www.planetf1.com/news/f1-2026-rules-at-centre-of-shock-axe-claim-in-favour-of-v10-report
  4. http://www.grandprix.com/news/verstappen-questions-shouting-about-v10-return.html
  5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pfk3h2zH1Ts