The FIA remains firm on expanding the F1 grid, signaling potential approval for a 12th team despite ongoing tensions with stakeholders.
A twelfth Formula 1 team could soon follow in Cadillac’s footsteps.
After a prolonged battle with F1’s commercial rights holder, Liberty Media, and the ten existing teams, Cadillac—originally Andretti—was finally granted entry into the sport starting in 2026.
“I didn’t understand it,” former F1 driver Gerhard Berger told Auto Motor und Sport when asked about Liberty’s opposition.
“Maybe there’s something in the background that I don’t know about.”
“What more could you want than an American team with an American driver and the power of Cadillac behind it? Yes, Cadillac takes some money from the other teams, but it also brings in new sponsors.”
“A better solution should have been found rather than arguing for two years.”
The Andretti-Cadillac team has always had the backing of the FIA, led by its controversial president, Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The FIA president suggests that F1 should maximize the grid by adding a twelfth team.
“We are well aware that I faced a major attack over the eleventh team,” said Ben Sulayem. “But now, we have an eleventh team.”
“Was it necessary to go through all this mess to get it? I don’t think so. The rules were clear, and we are even allowed to have twelve teams.”
“Will we have twelve? If the right team comes along, the FIA will open the expression of interest. We fear no one. We will do what is right for the FIA.”
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No Fear: FIA Stands Firm on F1 Grid Growth No Fear: FIA Stands Firm on F1 Grid Growth
