F1 Daily: Return of the V8 Engines, Ugochukwu's F1 Prospects & Norris's Business Move

After announcing Africa's return to the Formula 1 calendar, the FIA also caught everyone by surprise when it hinted at the sport's next engine era in 2030. What engine could that be? Let's find out.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem says that F1 could bring V8 engines back as early as 2030, when a new set of regulations kicks in. In terms of the timeline, there's nothing definite just yet. But it's still nice to know that the sport is seriously considering returning to the V8 engine era.

This V8 return would represent a major shift from the current regs' emphasis on electrical power and battery deployment. As such, it might take a while to map out the details. Manufacturers must still agree on the details, including the balance between combustion and electrical power.

After clinching the Formula 3 title this year, Ugo Ugochukwu is knocking on the doors of F1.

Cadillac announced that they have signed Ugochukwu as a test driver for 2027. This gives the 19-year-old driver a real path towards the most coveted seat in motorsport. 

Plus, Ugochukwu is an American driver who will join Cadillac, an American outfit. Former IndyCar and current Formula 2 driver Colton Herta is the team's current test driver. However, Herta, who is also an American, has struggled in F2 this year. 

If Herta's struggles continue in 2027 (we still don't know where he will drive next year), expect Cadillac to warm up more to the 19-year-old Ugochukwu.

McLaren driver and reigning World Champion Lando Norris has been making moves on and off the track. After co-founding a racing team called LN4 Fusion in September, Norris is also investing in Seat Unique, a British premium ticketing and hospitality platform.

Seat Unique operates a marketplace for official premium seats and hospitality packages at major sporting and entertainment events. Currently, it holds exclusive rights to distribute tickets for UEFA Euro 2028, along with the scheduled heavyweight boxing fight between Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury on December 11.

The investment adds another dimension to Norris's growing business portfolio, which includes LN4 Fusion, F1 Arcade, and Quadrant.

Tropical Cyclone Rachel caused flash flooding around Las Vegas, with Koval Lane, part of the street racing circuit, among the roads affected. Fortunately, local reports say that the flooding eventually subsided and crews reopened the roads the same day. There are no signs of lasting damage or any threat to the Las Vegas race, which is scheduled for November 21.

Formula 3 team Trident has signed 17-year-old Sebastian Wheldon for the 2027 FIA F3 season. After gaining experience in the junior categories in America and Europe, Wheldon finished second in the 2026 Formula Regional European Championship.

The young American driver is the son of former IndyCar champion Dan Wheldon.