Following Cadillac’s confirmed entry in 2026, the idea of a 12-team Formula 1 grid is gaining traction, with FIA President Ben Sulayem confident that the right manufacturer could make this expansion a reality
A 12-team Formula 1 grid—this is the bold proposal put forward by the FIA and its president, Ben Sulayem, following Cadillac’s official entry into the sport in 2026. Amid ongoing controversy surrounding the sudden dismissal of Johnny Herbert as race steward and the FIA’s firm stance on team radio regulations, the Saudi president has introduced another potential shake-up that could significantly expand the F1 grid. The addition of another team would bring the total to 24 drivers, a number unseen since the 2012 season.
However, after that season, the FIA and F1 gradually moved toward restructuring the grid, eliminating teams that struggled both financially and competitively. Many of these outfits were often closer in performance to Formula 2 than to pole position. The risk of welcoming a new team remains, despite F1’s implementation of the Budget Cap and spending limits, which, at least in theory, have helped reduce the performance gap between teams in recent years.
Ben Sulayem’s words: “If the right proposal comes…”
In a thought-provoking statement, Ben Sulayem once again challenged Liberty Media and F1, highlighting how unnecessary the turmoil surrounding Cadillac’s 2026 entry had been. After months of disputes, legal battles, and intense negotiations, Michael Andretti ultimately prevailed over Stefano Domenicali and Liberty Media, which has long been hesitant about expanding beyond 10 teams
Nonetheless, Ben Sulayem recently made a strong statement on the matter: “Last year, I faced heavy criticism for supporting an 11th team. But now, we have an 11th team. So, I ask: was all that chaos really necessary? I don’t think so. If the right team comes forward, the FIA will launch a new expression of interest. We fear no one.” It remains to be seen which manufacturer could meet the FIA’s criteria and whether the sport can avoid the conflicts that marked previous expansion efforts.
Photo: FIA