FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has reiterated his desire to expand the Formula 1 grid amid interest from various parties.
The most vocal outfit attempting to join the grid is Andretti Global, who last week announced a partnership with General Motors (GM).
The deal would see Cadillac join the paddock with Andretti, with team owner Michael Andretti highlighting that GM’s involvement showcases the serious nature of his bid.
But he has faced resistance from F1 teams amid concerns over how his entry would impact revenue shares. However, McLaren and Alpine have shown support for his push.
READ MORE: Andretti’s F1 bid can no longer be ignored
The FIA’s regulations state that a maximum of 12 teams, which translates to 24 drivers, are permitted to be on the grid.
Ben Sulayem, who succeeded Jean Toft in late 2021, says that GM’s presence on the grid would be beneficial for F1.
“The maximum [number] is 12 teams,” he said, speaking to media at the Dakar Rally.
“We’re talking about GM, one of the top 5 automakers in the world. And not about anyone who wants to have an adventure in Formula 1.
“We have to promote something like this. In addition, it would be a team from the USA, which would be important for Formula 1 and would open a door.”
F1 is currently rocketing in popularity in the United States after years of promotion struggles.
This year, there will be three races in the country, including a Saturday night grand prix around Las Vegas in November.
Although Haas is currently F1’s only US team, GM’s automotive presence would mark another significant injection of a global manufacturer in the series, with Audi confirming plans last year to enter in 2026.
F1 clarified in a release shortly after the announcement of the Andretti Cadillac was made official that there are several other parties seeking to join the grid.
The FIA is looking into establishing an expressions of interest process to allow new teams into the sport going forward.
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