The FIA has held talks with Chinese car manufacturer BYD about joining Formula One as the sport's 12th team, with discussions also involving partner Geely.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem confirmed the talks at the New Economy Forum in Madrid, saying the governing body can open the door for a 12th team.
Talks confirmed with Chinese manufacturers
Ben Sulayem said he met with manufacturers who wanted to join, naming BYD and Geely as the two candidates. He described BYD as a giant in the car manufacturing world.
The paddock has already seen recent expansion, with Cadillac becoming the 11th team on the grid at the start of the 2026 season, following Audi's takeover of the Sauber project.
Conditions for entry
Ben Sulayem insisted that a credible project must be put forward before a place on the grid is considered. He said he told BYD: "Come back with a serious offer that we can see that it's going to work."
He also noted that several parts of the rulebook may need amending if a 12th team is added, though he stressed the regulations must remain permanent and stable.
China's role in F1
Ben Sulayem said he is keen for a Chinese manufacturer to get involved, pointing to the existing race in China, the presence of Chinese technology, and former Sauber driver Zhou Guanyu, who raced from 2022 to 2024.
He added that the FIA is open to hydrogen, hybrid, and electrification for the World Rally Championship in the future, alongside sustainable fuel, as ways to reach clean environment and clean air targets.
