Ben Sulayem challenges F1’s growing calendar and pushes for a 12th Chinese team, clashing once again with FOM over the sport’s direction.
He never misses an opportunity: Mohammed Ben Sulayem took advantage of an interview with Le Figaro at the FIA headquarters in Paris to once again challenge the structural decisions of FOM and Liberty Media for F1.
The first longstanding point of contention between the FIA and FOM: the calendar.
The Emirati criticizes the expansion to a record-breaking 24 Grands Prix, a move driven by FOM to generate more revenue.
“I think it’s a bit too much. I said it before and was attacked by many media outlets. Twenty races were enough. From the beginning, I have believed there should be fewer Grands Prix but more teams.”
The paradox is that France has been left without a Grand Prix, despite LVMH becoming a major sponsor of F1.
“I couldn’t agree more, but it’s not within the federation’s control. Liberty Media, as the promoter, is doing a fantastic job. I would be thrilled if F1 returned to France, as well as Germany. Expanding to new countries is great, but we must not forget where the sport’s history began.”
Mohammed Ben Sulayem wants a Chinese manufacturer
The second point of contention between the FIA and FOM is the number of teams in F1. Mohammed Ben Sulayem had been eager to welcome Cadillac, while Liberty Media blocked the move.
“We need fewer Grands Prix and more teams, yes. That’s why we brought in General Motors with Cadillac. Many were opposed to it, but I believe it was the right decision for the sport.”
“Should we focus on quantity or quality? We need quality teams.”
After securing an American manufacturer, Mohammed Ben Sulayem now dreams of welcoming a Chinese constructor. He sees this as the ideal nationality for the 12th team he has been advocating for (see our article from yesterday).
“This has been my dream for two years—to have major countries represented in Formula 1. The United States will be with General Motors. The next step is bringing in a Chinese manufacturer. We already have a driver.”
However, Mohammed Ben Sulayem seems to overlook that Guanyu Zhou is currently only Ferrari’s reserve driver…
No predictions for 2025!
Finally, when asked about the 2025 season, Mohammed Ben Sulayem declined to make a prediction.
“(Laughs) I won’t answer that. To be honest, when I attend a Grand Prix, people sometimes ask me who’s leading, and I have no idea. I’m there to ensure the race runs under perfect conditions of safety and fairness.”
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