F1 Considers Return of Refueling in Pit Stops from 2031
F1 and the FIA are exploring the reintroduction of refueling during races from 2031 as part of a broader technical overhaul, aiming to reduce car weight by up to 100 kg while transitioning to simpler V8 engines.
The FIA and Formula 1 management are seriously considering bringing back refueling during pit stops starting in 2031. This move would be part of major technical regulation changes, including a shift to simpler V8 engines. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem confirmed that the matter is under active study and stated that there is no reason for concern if it is done correctly.
The primary motivation for reintroducing refueling is to significantly reduce the weight of F1 cars. The switch to V8 engines, which consume more fuel than current hybrid units, creates a dilemma: either increase fuel tank size, adding weight, or introduce refueling during pit stops to keep tanks smaller and cars lighter. This could cut overall weight by up to 100 kg.
At the same time, the FIA is considering changing the engine supply model to allow teams that do not manufacture their own engines to obtain them from an independent supplier. This would reduce dependence on major manufacturers and limit the political influence they exert over customer teams. Ben Sulayem noted that the FIA would control engine price, power, and neutrality.
Refueling has been banned in F1 since 2009 due to safety and cost concerns, but the FIA now sees it in a new light, aiming to improve sustainability and competitiveness.
