FIA President flags BYD as the main candidate to join the Formula 1 grid as the 12th team
The president of the International Automobile Federation (FIA) reaffirmed his support for expanding the number of teams on the grid, pointing to a Chinese manufacturer as a strong competitor for the 12th place in Formula 1.
Ben Sulayem’s stance in favor of the category’s growth is not new. For example, Cadillac has already secured its participation in F1, confirmed as the 11th team from 2026.
With the growing wave of speculation surrounding BYD, a new round of expansion of the F1 grid is once again a topic of great interest.
Recent meetings between Formula 1 leaders and representatives of the Chinese automaker were crucial in intensifying these speculations.
FIA leadership defends entry of a Chinese manufacturer into the category
In an interview with German news agency DPA during the 24 Hours of Le Mans event, president Ben Sulayem articulated his views regarding the potential addition of a new team to F1.
The leader emphasized that the goal goes beyond merely increasing the number of participants; The main thing is to identify a project that really brings benefits and substantial value to the championship.
Ben Sulayem stated: “It’s not just about adding another team, it’s about adding the right team. And we see the right team in China.”
Although the current F1 regulations contemplate the inclusion of a 12th team, the implementation of an expansion process may encounter resistance from existing competitors, as well as from Formula One Management.
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Although aware of these challenges, the FIA president clearly expressed his desire to witness the entry of a Chinese manufacturer into the main motorsport category.
Meetings in Monaco fuel speculation about BYD in Formula 1
In parallel with the FIA’s statements that gained prominence, a series of recent behind-the-scenes events contributed to further intensifying the buzz.
During the Monaco Grand Prix, information emerged that Stella Li, vice-president of BYD, was present in meetings with Ben Sulayem and Stefano Domenicali, CEO of F1, which considerably strengthened conversations about a possible project in the paddock.
Additionally, other details connected BYD’s possible entry to Christian Horner, former Red Bull team principal. His recent appearance alongside BYD representatives at the Cannes Film Festival further fueled rumors about his participation in the venture.
To date, the Chinese automaker has not issued any official statement confirming plans to enter F1.
However, both recent meetings and Ben Sulayem’s public statements signal that the FIA would welcome a possible candidacy from BYD with great interest, if the company chooses to move towards joining the category’s grid.
