FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem stated that the next new Formula 1 team should be a Chinese automotive company. According to him, the federation has already discussed a potential entry into the championship with BYD and Geely, but neither company has yet submitted an official application.

The key requirement is a serious project. BYD, according to Ben Sulayem, considered creating its own team rather than acquiring an existing structure. The FIA is ready to consider such an application if it confirms the technical and commercial viability of the project.

Currently, there are 11 teams in the championship: Cadillac joined the grid in 2026. However, the FIA does not intend to change the technical regulations specifically for a Chinese manufacturer. This is especially important given the new F1 power unit architecture: modern cars use a hybrid system and 100% sustainable fuel.

For BYD and Geely, participation in Formula 1 would be more than just an advertising platform. The main value lies in the development and demonstration of electrification technologies, power electronics, energy recovery, and highly efficient hybrid systems in extreme conditions.

For now, it's about negotiations, not a new team. The next step should be an application capable of convincing the FIA to open an official selection process.

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