The 2015 Formula 1 grid will welcome an American team after Gene Haas confirmed he has officially been granted a slot by the FIA.
The NASCAR team co-owner applied to become F1’s 12th team after the governing body opened a tender to interested parties earlier this year.
Confirmation of which entrant had been successful had been expected in early-March, but the decision was delayed to ensure Haas could provide evidence his venture has the necessary financial backing in place to avoid a repeat of the USF1 failure from 2009.
In a statement, Haas confirmed the news: “Obviously, we’re extremely pleased to have been granted a Formula 1 licence by the FIA,” he said.
“It’s an exciting time for me, Haas Automation and anyone who wanted to see an American team return to Formula 1.
“Now, the really hard work begins. It’s a challenge we embrace as we work to put cars on the grid.
“I want to thank the FIA for this opportunity and the diligence everyone put forth to see our licence application come to fruition.”
Haas hopes to release further details about the outfit next week.
The FIA also confirmed it is considering an application from a company called ‘Forza Rossa’ as a potential 13th team.
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