FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has reiterated his support for expanding the Formula 1 grid to 12 teams while suggesting that the current 24-race calendar is excessive.
F1 has experienced significant growth since Liberty Media’s takeover in 2017, attracting major manufacturers and commercial partners. The FIA - Formula 1's governing body - approved Andretti’s bid to join the grid, with General Motors backing the prospective American outfit. Ben Sulayem believes further expansion should involve a Chinese manufacturer.
Ben Sulayem told Spanish reporters: “For a couple of years, I have been dreaming of having all the major countries represented in F1. The United States will be represented by General Motors, and the next step would be the arrival of a major Chinese group. They already have the driver.”
China has had a presence on the grid since 2022 through Zhou Guanyu, who became the nation’s first F1 driver when he made his debut with Alfa Romeo, now rebranded as Stake F1 Team. He lost his drive but has been picked up by Ferrari as a reserve to Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc.
Ben Sulayem also questioned the sustainability of a 24-race F1 season, arguing that the sport should balance global expansion with respect for its historical venues.
“I think we need more teams and fewer Grands Prix," he said. "24 is too many, 20 would be enough. Opening up to new countries is a beautiful thing, but we must not forget traditions.
"I would be happy to see F1 return to France and Germany," he concluded, as several European F1 race venues now face the prospect of alternating with others.
The Concorde Agreement allows for up to 12 teams on the grid, but commercial negotiations with Formula One Management (FOM) would be required to finalise any expansion.
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