BYD is publicly contemplating an entry into F1 in light of rumors surrounding Horner.
Chinese automotive giant BYD has confirmed that it is seriously contemplating a possible entry into Formula 1 in the future. This development comes in light of increasing speculation linking the world's largest electric vehicle manufacturer to Christian Horner, the former boss of Red Bull Racing, who has been making public appearances following the conclusion of his gardening leave period.
As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, BYD's vice president Stella Li acknowledged that the company is actively exploring the idea of joining Formula 1. "It’s an opportunity we’re seriously considering," Li stated.
These remarks follow Horner's recent appearance at an awards event in Cannes associated with BYD, where he was allegedly seen meeting with Li on two occasions during the weekend. Speculation is focused on either a completely new Formula 1 team entry—potentially becoming the twelfth and final team—or involvement in the sale of the available 24 percent stake in Alpine that is currently held by Otro Capital. There are also rumors about a sale concerning Red Bull’s second team, Racing Bulls, circulating in the Montreal paddock.
BYD has recently surpassed Tesla as the world's largest electric vehicle manufacturer, positioning itself as one of the few companies with the financial capability for a significant F1 project. Li indicated that participating in Formula 1 could serve as a vital platform for the company’s technological development. "It would be an excellent training ground for testing our technologies," she told Sport Mediaset.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has also expressed support for the idea of a Chinese manufacturer entering Formula 1. "If a Chinese manufacturer were interested, I’m sure the FOM would accept," he remarked. "Also, why wouldn’t there be more revenue with a new team from China? I definitely think so."
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BYD is publicly contemplating an entry into F1 in light of rumors surrounding Horner.
Formula 1 | The Chinese automotive powerhouse BYD has publicly stated that it is actively contemplating a future participation in Formula 1. This comes in response to increasing (...)