Famed engine manufacturer Cosworth may be set to announce a surprise return to the F1 grid in 2021.
The company has recently taken part in discussions over the future of F1 after 2020. Of particular interest is a change of engine regulations, with a potentially simpler and cheaper hybrid turbo V6 formula.
Hal Reisiger, CEO of Cosworth, has expressed optimism over a new engine specification when speaking to Motorsport.com. As a result of some conversations with F1 teams, Cosworth has committed resources to an F1 project.
Interestingly, Cosworth has agreed to play a role in finalizing the 2021 rules. Reisiger commented:
We appreciate being involved in the process. We think we are well suited to come back into F1 if the engine regulations should change, and the compelling change has to be with the heat energy recovery [from the turbo] – because that is the most expensive and time-consuming element.
If F1 wants a new engine supplier for 2021 there will have to be some changes on that front. We have been invited to participate in the working committees which we are happy to do, so we are engaged in the process and looking forward to it.
The heat energy recovery system – or MGU-H – has been problematic in general. However, no team has struggled quite like Honda, which cannot make its MGU-H last more than two races.
Reisiger is also optimistic about Cosworth’s competitiveness. When asked if it’s capable of competing with the top-tier teams, Reisiger added:
Yes. It is important not only for the teams that we would serve, but for our own brand that we should not get involved in it if we cannot be competitive.
We have a great historic brand, we want to protect our brand as much as we want to help people win races, but we do think we can do it.
As only three teams make their own engines, there are several potential partners available for Cosworth too. McLaren is reportedly unhappy with the power and reliability of its Honda engines. Cosworth also previously supplied Williams in the V8 era. Red Bull may be among the front-runners too, having grown so tired of its Renault engines that they are now badged ‘Tag Heuer’. A Cosworth V12 also powers the Red Bull/Aston Martin Valkyrie supercar.
Reisiger states that a decision on Cosworth’s return isn’t necessary until next year.
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