Szafnauer remains receptive to the possibility of a bid for a 12th F1 team.

Szafnauer remains receptive to the possibility of a bid for a 12th F1 team.

      "All the financial opportunities and connections are indeed still present."

      A new wave of interest for a potential 12th Formula 1 team is gathering momentum, with another well-known name now in the mix. In light of confirmed interest from Chinese automotive manufacturer BYD and the FIA's intention to increase the grid size, Otmar Szafnauer has expressed that he would consider entering a new team.

      "Should Formula 1 indeed be open to adding a twelfth team, it’s something I would give serious thought to," he stated in an interview with the Dutch magazine Formule 1. "The financial opportunities and connections are all still intact," remarked the former team principal of Alpine and Aston Martin. "So, if the chance arises in the future, I will definitely explore a potential entry."

      Currently the CEO and managing partner of the renowned junior series, Van Amersfoort Racing, Szafnauer has previously looked into forming a bid with a group of investors. This has led to speculation about Van Amersfoort, which played a significant role in launching Max Verstappen's career, potentially advancing to the Formula 1 level. Szafnauer did not rule out this possibility.

      "Could this team automatically become the twelfth F1 team? Who knows. Maybe," he commented. "At this moment, it's just a possibility for the future. But it may not be Van Amersfoort Racing specifically; it could be under a different name. Either way, one does not exclude the other."

      Cadillac is set to become Formula 1’s eleventh team in 2026 following a lengthy negotiation with Liberty Media-owned Formula One Management.

Szafnauer remains receptive to the possibility of a bid for a 12th F1 team.

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