FIA pushes forward with new team inclusion despite F1 grid expansion concerns

Grid expansion saga

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem remains steadfast in his decision to initiate the tender process for new Formula 1 teams, despite encountering significant apprehension within the paddock.

Earlier this year, the FIA encouraged potential teams to submit their interest in joining the F1 grid as early as 2025, resulting in applications from multiple aspirants including Andretti-Cadillac, Hitech, Formula Equal, and LKY SUNZ.

Opposition and concerns from current teams

The proposal to expand the grid hasn't been well-received by all.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and existing teams have voiced their skepticism, primarily due to concerns about sharing revenue with additional teams and the potential logistical problems tied to limited pit garage space.

FIA's stance on the matter

Despite these concerns, Ben Sulayem insists that the FIA is adhering to the rules that allow for up to 12 teams.

"We have a contract and our contract says we have up to 12 teams. So we are not breaking the rules. We are, on the contrary, fulfilling the rules," Sulayem asserted in an interview with Motorsport-Total.com.

He also stressed the importance of completing a thorough analysis of each application's financial and technical aspects.

Initially, the decision was scheduled for the end of June, but this timeline has been extended to ensure a meticulous evaluation process.

Sulayem hinted that a verdict might arrive in four to six weeks after the F1 summer break.

Legal implications

The impending decision carries significant consequences, with potential legal threats from any denied applicants.

Sulayem acknowledges this, adding, "What if one of the applying teams take us to court? They can, if we say no to them,” he clarified. “It's not about me. I am only implementing the rules."

Addressing logistical concerns

The practical implications of accommodating more teams at current F1 tracks and possible safety risks during qualifying have been highlighted.

However, Sulayem dismissed these, saying, “We are running an 11th team already because of Hollywood. And the tracks have been improving. The FIA is always there with the circuits and looking for constant ways to improve.”

Asked about the capacity of current circuits, he confidently asserted, “One hundred percent. If it is 10, or 11, or 12 [teams], they have to be compliant. Our circuit commission will always be there and they will check and go through the whole process."

He further noted, "You can't have regulations that suit everyone...Everybody signed, and the new teams signed up as a consequence."

“I can't break the rules. I am not giving anyone any ideas, but if there is an application and we have enough space for it, we have to look into it,” he concluded.