P1racenews AI automatic summary:
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem maintains he has “nothing to hide” having been put through “hell” over the process to get Cadillac provisionally admitted onto the F1 grid.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem played a crucial role in Cadillac’s entry into F1, going through a challenging process to secure a new team in the paddock. The approval process began in early 2023, with only Andretti’s bid making it to the final stage for approval from Formula 1 management. Despite initial setbacks, including a rejected application, Cadillac F1 was eventually provisionally admitted to the grid for the 2026 season and beyond, with GM becoming a power unit OEM from 2028. Ben Sulayem highlighted the collaborative efforts between the FIA, F1, and Liberty Media in overcoming obstacles and expanding the F1 paddock. He underlined the significance of this achievement for motorsport, expressing satisfaction for all involved parties and the fans. Despite the challenges faced, Ben Sulayem remains proud of the governance, transparency, and due diligence exercised throughout the process, emphasizing the unity between the FIA and FOM.