Anthony Hamilton, father of seven-time world champion Fórmula 1 Lewis Hamilton, has released full details about the HybridV10 project, a new independent motorsport series. The initiative foresees two main categories, with naturally aspirated V8 and V10 hybrid engines, aiming to revive the characteristic sound of racing from the 2000s. The launch of the first events is scheduled for 2028 or 2029, after development and testing phases.
The series comes at a time of debate over the future of engines in Fórmula 1, where quieter hybrids have dominated since 2014.
The project also includes the creation of a central campus for teams and educational programs, as well as mechanisms for greater fan participation.
Features of cars
The HybridV10 single-seaters will be divided into two distinct classes. The main category will utilize V10 hybrid engines, designed to deliver visceral performance and impactful sound, while the support division will feature V8 hybrid units.
Each grid will have 24 cars, operated by up to 24 teams, with just one vehicle per category per team. The cars will follow a single-brand specification, with strict control over aerodynamic development to ensure balance and reliability.
- Naturally aspirated engines with hybrid element
- Approved limits for technical evolutions
- Focus on full-speed racing without artificial management
Structure for pilots
HybridV10 prioritizes meritocracy in driver selection. Competitors will be paid professionals, with no room for paying pilots, and seats will be won based on proven performance.
For the V10 class, drivers must be at least 20 years old and hold a hybrid super license issued by Hybrid World Commission (HWC). Essa credential considers results in established championships, performance in simulators and criteria such as physical conditioning.
The series will open doors to talent from diverse backgrounds, including rally, IndyCar, NASCAR and prototypes. Uma Liga of Draft of Automobilismo will direct the best candidates to the 48 available vacancies.
Event format
Each season will feature around 12 HybridV10 festivals, organized over three days to maximize spectacle. The events will avoid conflicts with major championship calendars, such as the Fórmula 1, and will prioritize FIA Grau 1 standard circuits outside the current maximum category schedule.
The programming follows a geographic logic, minimizing unnecessary travel and accessing emerging markets. The predicted sequence starts at Oriente Médio, passes through Ásia, Europa, África, Américas and ends at Austrália.
Fridays dedicated to technology and innovation exhibitions. Sábados reserved for V8 category races, with parallel educational activities. Domingos focused on the main event with the V10 hybrids.
Centralized infrastructure
The entire HybridV10 operation will operate from a dedicated campus, which will house an Centro of Excelência. Esse complex will contain facilities for teams, including advanced simulators and engineering laboratories.
The location will also offer training programs for pilots and initiatives in STEM areas, with partnerships with universities and technology companies. The structure aims to reduce operational costs and promote collaboration between participants.
Furthermore, the campus will include alternative paths for young talents, such as routes via simulators for those who do not have traditional access to karting.
Governance and fan participation
HybridV10 will be supervised by the Hybrid World Commission (HWC), an independent body that will collaborate with national authorities, but will maintain commercial autonomy. Essa entity will issue licenses and monitor conduct.
An innovative mechanism called “This Isn’t Right” will allow fans to report real-time concerns about sporting fairness or safety during events. Complaints will be formally analyzed to increase transparency.
The series will also regulate pilot agents, requiring accreditation and adherence to codes of conduct to protect emerging talent.
Next steps of the project
HybridV10 remains in its early stages, with a focus in the coming months on attracting team owners, manufacturers and strategic partners. In 2026, the effort will focus on engaging fans and validating technical concepts.
If significant progress is made, detailed development of the vehicles will take place throughout that year, followed by testing in 2027. The goal remains to launch the first festivals in 2028 or 2029, depending on progress with engines and chassis.
Anthony Hamilton highlights that investors are already showing interest, and the priority is to build the series with fans to ensure lasting support.
Hybrid elements and strategy
The HybridV10 hybrid systems will incorporate simple technologies, such as quick recharging at pit stops, adding a strategic layer without compromising the show. The approach balances sustainability with the emotional appeal of high-revving engines.
Developments include the use of sustainable fuels to replicate the classic V10 sound. Essa combination seeks to attract generations that miss the characteristic snoring of past eras.
The main category will emphasize pure racing, while V8 will serve as an access and development platform.
Access to young talent
HybridV10 will invest heavily in training the next generation of drivers. Jovens will be able to combine studies with training via simulators, creating alternative routes to the traditional path.
Educational programs on campus will include apprenticeships in engineering and technical fields. Essa initiative aims to democratize access to high-level motorsport.
HWC will also protect families by regulating agents, avoiding conflicts of interest and promoting transparency.
Calendar and planned circuits
Although no route is confirmed, preference falls on iconic tracks from Grau 1, such as Sepang, Paul Ricard, Fuji, Istanbul Park, Mugello and Essas choices prioritize locations with rich history, but absent from the current Fórmula 1 calendar.
The “Circuit Ecológico” concept will organize the sequence to reduce travel emissions. Going around the world in one direction will facilitate logistics and expansion to new audiences.
Twelve annual events will form the basis, with potential adjustments depending on market adoption.
The HybridV10 represents a bold proposal to reinvent open-wheel motorsport, combining sonic nostalgia with hybrid innovations and affordability. Anthony Hamilton positions the project as a platform for authentic racing, where the driver returns to the center of attention in a controlled and inclusive environment.
