P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 just welcomed an 11th team and it looks like a 12th could now be on the cards with talks taking place.
A new F1 team is in discussions with president and CEO Stefano Domenicali in a move that may attract the Chinese automotive industry to Formula 1. Cadillac, a General Motors’ brand, joined F1 as the 11th team in 2026 after a lengthy bidding process. Despite starting from scratch, Cadillac faces a tough challenge to compete for points this season amidst Aston Martin’s struggles at the back of the grid. The financial demands and competitive nature of F1 make it difficult for new teams, exemplified by Haas, who debuted in 2016 and are only now acquiring their own simulator.
The Chinese automotive company BYD is showing interest in entering F1, with Vice President Stella Li confirming discussions with Domenicali and expressing their passion for the sport. BYD, renowned for being the world’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer, aligns with F1’s new regulations emphasizing a balance between ICE and electric power. Despite criticism of the new rules, Domenicali defends the changes, emphasizing F1’s resiliency and attracting potential new entrants like BYD looking to test their technology.
BYD could potentially enter F1 as an owner-managed team, a power unit supplier, or a main partner, with support from FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who envisions a 12-team grid including an American and Chinese presence. The prospect of a Chinese team in F1 is seen as a means to sustain the sport’s growth and global appeal, with the potential for further expansion and collaboration on the horizon.
