The question of the new teams that have applied to join the grid from 1 is a tug of war between the FIA and F2026. The discussions on a possible entry of an 11th team have divided the audience and soured relations between the top management of F1 and the Federation led by Ben Sulayem. Those who took sides against the ban to evaluate entry into F1 were primarily the existing teams who would have to share the portion of the revenue with another team. The increase in ratings and the greater popularity of F1 have also attracted new sponsors, increasing the financial value of the teams. A rich dish, which many would now like to get their hands on.
The FIA - while recognizing the teams' point of view, seems intent on continuing this research, which has led to 3 nominations so far: Andretti-Cadillac, HitechGP e Panthera Team Asia.
Ben Sulayem portrayed
The president of the FIA, who took over at the beginning of 2022, has repeatedly expressed his point of view on every channel, and without filters, without worrying about the consequences and with a lot of confidence. A surprising confidence that also made him unpopular. Already on the occasion of the first candidacy - that of Andretti, I'm Sulayem he said he was "shocked" by the negative reactions coming from the Circus, also inviting us to think about the benefits of this operation. The attack had arrived on the president's social networks and, although it did not report names and surnames, it made clear how tense the climate was already.
However, a situation that necessarily has important repercussions both on the teams and on the Circus itself, such as the entry of an 11th team, requires greater diplomacy. Interviewed by GrandPrix247, the number one of the FIA has taken a step back on his past statements, recognizing the importance of the teams' perspective, on whom he could not arbitrarily impose his will.
"There are some teams that want to get in – says Ben Sulayem – and we are happy that they have expressed interest. We worked with FOM and with Stefano Domenicali. This is very important to do proper due diligence. But we cannot force large teams to say yes or no. It's up to them to decide".
But also invite teams to do so
Despite having recognized the importance of team thinking, he makes an appeal to them, recalling them to sense of responsibility. In fact, from the moment a team presents all the requirements to enter, it would be impossible to deny it just because the other 10 teams oppose it.
“I understand the teams' questions. It's something important – added the FIA number one – we in the federation also have these concerns. When it comes to expressions of interest, there are regulations. We cannot reject applications just because we are waiting for another choice and we can't even say no if [the teams] meet the demands. I understand other teams' concerns when it comes to bringing in a new team. But I expect them to also understand our position on the matter. This is how we can move forward together. One thing I won't do is break the rules.”
A clear message, which sounds like a definitive sentence.
Source statements: FormulaPassion
