Earlier this year, the authoritative body for motorsports invited prospective new teams to express their interest in participating in the F1 grid as early as 2025. The assessment of these applications is currently underway, with numerous teams including Andretti-Cadillac, Hitech, Formula Equal led by Craig Pollock, and LKY SUNZ openly expressing their aspirations.
Additional squads, like Rodin Carlin and an entrant from Asia, have also been associated with potential F1 propositions. However, the expansion of the F1 grid has been met with disdain within the grand prix circle, with F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali expressing doubt over the necessity to increase the number of competitors beyond the current ten.
Moreover, existing teams have raised concerns over the prospect of having more cars on the track. These teams have publicly challenged the commercial consequences of dividing their revenue among more participants, as well as the logistical issues connected to the availability of pit garages.
Yet, Ben Sulayem remains unshaken amidst the skepticism surrounding new team entries and believes the efforts of the FIA to increase the grid have been justified.
In an exclusive discussion with F1 Flow’s affiliate site, F1 Flow-Total.com, Ben Sulayem stated: “We hold a contract that allows up to 12 teams. Hence, we are not violating the rules but adhering to them. As a regulator, the FIA must consider all requests, which we did. Inviting interest was the correct move.”
The original evaluation deadline for applications was the end of June, but the FIA has extended it to conduct an exhaustive review of all submissions. The decision is expected to be announced shortly after the F1 summer break.
Ben Sulayem also touched on the significant financial stakes involved and potential legal threats if any new F1 teams are rejected at this stage. Furthermore, he dismissed concerns about inadequate space in current circuits and potential safety issues with more than 20 cars on track.
Despite the concerns and opposition, Ben Sulayem maintains that the rule of law must be upheld, even if it doesn’t satisfy everyone. He is adamant about proceeding with the process, emphasizing the importance of a thorough evaluation for all applicants and a clear, careful decision-making process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about F1 grid expansion
Who has expressed interest in joining the F1 grid from 2025?
Several teams including Andretti-Cadillac, Hitech, Craig Pollock’s Formula Equal, and LKY SUNZ have gone public with their ambitions. Other squads like Rodin Carlin and an entry from Asia are also linked to potential F1 bids.
What concerns have been raised by existing teams regarding new entrants on the grid?
Existing teams have raised concerns about the commercial implications of sharing their revenue with more parties and logistical issues related to the availability of pit garages for the additional teams.
How has Ben Sulayem responded to the criticisms regarding the new team inclusion process?
Ben Sulayem, despite the criticisms, believes that the FIA’s efforts to expand the grid are justified. He holds the view that they are not breaking but adhering to the rules by allowing up to 12 teams as per the contract.
What is the timeframe for decision making on new team applications?
The original evaluation deadline for applications was the end of June, but the FIA has extended it to conduct an exhaustive review of all submissions. The decision is expected to be announced shortly after the F1 summer break.
Are there any potential legal issues associated with the inclusion of new teams?
Yes, there could be potential legal threats if any new F1 teams are rejected at this stage. Ben Sulayem acknowledges the possibility of legal action by the rejected teams.
What are the practical issues in accommodating new teams?
One of the practical issues raised is that many of F1’s current tracks do not have enough garages to accommodate additional teams. There could also be safety issues in qualifying if there are more than 20 cars on track at the same time.
More about F1 grid expansion
- FIA Official Website
- Formula 1 Official Website
- Details on Andretti-Cadillac Team
- Details on Hitech Team
- Details on Formula Equal
- Details on LKY SUNZ Team
- Details on Rodin Carlin Team
- Details on F1 Flow
- Stefano Domenicali’s View on F1 Expansion
- Concorde Agreement Explained
- Brad Pitt’s Apple F1 Movie
7 comments
isn’t the anti-dilution fee set at $200 million already? And they’re thinking of raising it? Wow, that’s a steep price for a spot on the grid.
i totally get where the existing teams are coming from, the revenue split will get tighter… but let’s be honest, new teams could shake things up a bit!
What about the safety though? More cars on the track means more potential for accidents. Sulayem better take that into account.
So wait, we’re getting even more teams? I mean, more cars = more action, but isn’t the pit already too crowded? just sayin…
Looking at the bright side, new teams could mean more jobs in the industry. Just hoping FIA will make this process as fair as possible.
Ben Sulayem seems to have his head in the game. like he said, “They’re not breaking but adhering to the rules”. rules are rules guys.
I’m kinda excited to see new teams joining. It’s always the same big guns winning. More competition = more fun!