F1’s Domenicali Remains Resolute Against 11th Team Addition

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The impending verdict regarding the acceptance of new entries is anticipated to be unveiled in the upcoming weeks, with Andretti and Hitech being the most high-profile contenders.

This procedure is overseen by the FIA, although the F1 organisation must also give the green light for a fresh team to enter the competition.

Present teams have expressed their disinclination towards welcoming another competitor. Domenicali supports this view and maintains that any prospective entrant would have to bring substantial value to the sport, a sentiment previously voiced by Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff.

“My stance remains unchanged,” Domenicali stated to F1 Flow.com. “Money is not the issue as we’ve stated before. I do not wish to preempt anything as there is an ongoing process that I respect. The FIA has initiated this process and we’re nearing its conclusion.

We have always maintained that the decision must serve the business interests. This is the responsibility of both FIA and us, a decision which will be made in the next few months.”

Regarding the potential Andretti/Cadillac bid, Domenicali commented that there are both positives and negatives, part of their ongoing evaluation. “We’re conducting things with absolute sincerity and correctness. As soon as we’re ready for that discussion, we’ll inform and hold the discussion with the FIA.”

APXGP became the 11th team at the British GP, although it was a fictional team filming for an upcoming project.

Photo by: Simon Galloway / F1 Flow Images

Another impending verdict concerns the tyre contract for the period 2025-27, with a possible extension to 2028.

Bridgestone is contesting current holder Pirelli. Having received the FIA’s approval, the bids are now being evaluated by Domenicali and F1, with a key emphasis on the commercial aspects.

“It shouldn’t be long before a final decision is made,” he mentioned.

The various factors under consideration for this decision include technical, commercial, and economic elements, all of which are being thoroughly evaluated.

On another note, Domenicali recognized the apprehensions some teams have voiced about the 2026 power unit package. Christian Horner has particularly called for alterations to the current 50:50 balance between the combustion engine and electrical power.

“I believe we always need to strike a balance when interpreting these comments,” he asserted. “There’s a significant amount of work to be done in the following weeks. Additional meetings are scheduled to ensure the project is progressing as intended.

“Therefore, I remain optimistic about finding the appropriate package, given the decisions that have been made concerning the engine, the power unit, and the car itself.”

Michael Andretti is eager to include his team in the existing F1 line-up.

Photo by: Mark Sutton / F1 Flow Images

Domenicali acknowledged that the 2026 rules hold significant implications, with sustainable fuel being a critical aspect.

“Indeed,” he agreed. “Considering our decision on sustainable fuel, people are now realizing the value of the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE), especially if the project is carried out with the appropriate sustainable fuel.

“I foresee a promising future not only for mobility but also for the racing industry. Weight and sound are two critical aspects for us, and we aim to keep these at the core of our discussions.

“Like everything in life, it’s crucial to find the right balance, and to have a clear vision for the best F1 programme. I am confident that we will achieve that.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about F1 Team Addition

What is Domenicali’s stance on the addition of an 11th team to F1?

Domenicali is firm in his stance against the addition of an 11th team to F1. He insists that any new entrant must bring substantial value to the sport.

Who are the potential contenders for this new entry?

Andretti and Hitech are considered the most high-profile contenders for the potential new entry to F1.

What are the upcoming decisions in F1, as mentioned by Domenicali?

There are two impending decisions – one regarding the acceptance of additional entries and the other concerning the tyre contract for the period 2025-27, with a possible extension to 2028.

What are the apprehensions regarding the 2026 power unit package?

There are concerns about the 2026 power unit package, particularly regarding the current 50:50 balance between the combustion engine and electrical power. Some, including Christian Horner, have called for alterations to this balance.

How does Domenicali view the future of racing in terms of sustainable fuel?

Domenicali believes that sustainable fuel is a critical aspect for the future of racing. He mentions that there is value in the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) if the project is carried out with the right sustainable fuel. He also highlights the importance of weight and sound in racing.

More about F1 Team Addition

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6 comments

powerPlay July 14, 2023 - 2:45 pm

Christian Horner’s got a point about the power unit… time for a shake up there.

Reply
SpeedThrills July 15, 2023 - 12:45 am

Andretti in F1 would be huge! Domenicali needs to rethink this, seriously!

Reply
ecoRacer July 15, 2023 - 1:00 am

Good to see them takin sustainable fuel seriously, F1 needs to lead the way in eco racing!

Reply
F1Fanatic89 July 15, 2023 - 2:04 am

Domenicali’s right, we dont need more teams, just better competition among the ones we got already.

Reply
PetrolHead_76 July 15, 2023 - 6:16 am

tyre contract changes… hope they choose wisely. tyres make or break a race!

Reply
PitStopPro July 15, 2023 - 11:05 am

waiting for this verdict, too much suspense, lol. who will it be Andretti or Hitech?

Reply

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