Former Alpine F1 team principal Otmar Szafnauer has unveiled an ambitious plan to introduce a 12th team to the Formula 1 grid. Speaking at the Miami Grand Prix during a business forum co-hosted by The Race, Szafnauer disclosed that he has been quietly developing this project for over a year. He emphasized that the financial backing is secured, with “serious people” ready to fund the team, and a car manufacturer poised to join the venture. While he refrained from naming the manufacturer, Szafnauer expressed confidence in the project’s viability, contingent on the right timing and opportunity to enter the sport .
Szafnauer’s strategy includes the possibility of acquiring an existing team, should one become available at a reasonable price. He acknowledged the challenges in this approach, noting that current team owners have varying perspectives on their tenure in Formula 1. With the new Concorde Agreement set for 2026-2030, Szafnauer anticipates that some owners might consider selling, providing an entry point for his prospective team .
The timing of Szafnauer’s announcement aligns with significant changes in the Formula 1 landscape. General Motors-backed Cadillac is set to join the grid in 2026, and Audi plans to enter by taking over Sauber. These developments suggest a growing openness within the sport to expand beyond the current ten-team format, potentially creating an opportunity for Szafnauer’s 12th team to materialize .
Szafnauer believes that Formula 1 has the capacity to accommodate a 12th team, citing historical precedents where the grid featured more than ten teams. He argues that expanding the grid would not only increase competition but also provide opportunities for talented drivers to enter the sport. His vision includes a team that combines technical expertise with business acumen, aiming to be both competitive and financially sustainable .
Despite the enthusiasm, Szafnauer acknowledges that the path to establishing a new team is fraught with challenges. The FIA and Formula 1 have yet to signal readiness to accommodate a 12th team, and regulatory considerations could delay the project’s fruition. Szafnauer projects a realistic timeframe of 2028 or 2029 for the new team to debut, contingent on the initiation of recruitment processes and regulatory approvals .
In summary, Otmar Szafnauer’s initiative to introduce a 12th team to Formula 1 represents a bold and strategic move, reflecting both his extensive experience in the sport and a vision for its future expansion.