The landscape of Formula 1 is undergoing a significant transformation, with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem now advocating for the inclusion of a twelfth team, ideally from China. His remarks come shortly after General Motors’ Cadillac secured a spot on the 2026 grid as the sport’s eleventh team, marking a pivotal moment in F1’s expansion.
Chinese F1 Team Next? FIA President Eyes Expansion After Cadillac Joins the Grid
The journey to Cadillac’s entry into Formula 1 was anything but smooth. Despite initially passing FIA’s stringent evaluation under the Andretti Cadillac name, the bid was rejected by Formula One Management (FOM) on commercial grounds. Many team principals opposed the expansion beyond ten teams, citing concerns over revenue distribution and logistical complications. However, a strategic shift—where General Motors took a more direct role—helped Cadillac finally gain acceptance.
This move positioned Cadillac as the second American team in Formula 1, joining Haas. The decision also reinforced Ben Sulayem’s long-term vision of attracting major manufacturers from influential automotive markets, further diversifying the sport.
Following Cadillac’s approval, Ben Sulayem has now turned his focus toward securing a Chinese manufacturer for Formula 1. China already boasts its first F1 driver, Zhou Guanyu, and bringing a national manufacturer into the mix would elevate the country’s presence in the sport. Speaking to Le Figaro, the FIA president emphasized his belief that expanding the grid with new teams rather than increasing the number of races would be beneficial.
“20 races was enough, and from the outset, I’ve thought that we need fewer grands prix, but more teams. That’s why we brought in General Motors with Cadillac,” Ben Sulayem stated.
While acknowledging skepticism from within the sport, he maintained that expansion strengthens Formula 1’s global appeal. “A lot of people were against it, but I think it’s a good decision for the sport.”
When asked about adding a twelfth team, he reaffirmed his desire for a quality entrant rather than simply increasing numbers. “Should we think in terms of quantity or quality? We need quality stables,” he said.
“It’s been my dream for the last two years that the big countries should have a presence in Formula 1.
“The United States will be with General Motors. The next step is to welcome a Chinese manufacturer. We already have a driver [in Ferrari reserve and ex-Stake driver, Zhou Guanyu].”
With Cadillac confirmed for 2026, the next few years could see increased discussions around expanding the grid further. However, any new team would face regulatory and commercial hurdles similar to those Cadillac encountered. If a Chinese manufacturer does join, it would mark a historic step in Formula 1’s globalization strategy.
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For now, all eyes remain on how Cadillac integrates into the sport and whether Ben Sulayem’s vision of a more inclusive, manufacturer-driven F1 grid will come to fruition.