The possibility of a 12th team entering Formula 1 has gained momentum, following various rumors involving the Chinese manufacturer BYD. However, McLaren CEO Zak Brown highlighted that grid expansion may face significant operational obstacles at several circuits on the calendar.
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In 2026, the category welcomed its 11th team with the arrival of Cadillac, but BYD’s growing interest has sparked discussions about a further increase in the number of competitors. According to recent information, Stella Li, vice president of the Chinese automaker, met with Stefano Domenicali for exploratory talks.
The meeting took place during the Monaco GP weekend, when Li was present at the event. Besides the CEO of Formula 1, the executive also held lengthy talks with Christian Horner, former head of the Red Bull Racing team, in a meeting held in Cannes, France, in mid-May.
It is still unclear what BYD’s objective in the premier motorsport category would be. The company may consider creating its own team, establishing a partnership with an existing grid structure, or even acting as a power unit supplier.
When asked about the possibility of a 12th team, Brown said he had not spent much time on the subject but pointed out an aspect he considers relevant. For the McLaren CEO, some circuits may not have enough capacity to accommodate another structure in the pits.
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“I haven’t thought much about it. If I dedicate two seconds to the topic, there are operational issues at some circuits regarding whether they would have the capacity for that,” said the McLaren executive.
Brown also emphasized that the decision lies with the FIA and Formula 1, who need to ensure that any change preserves the economic balance of the category: “In the end, it is a decision of the FIA and Formula 1. As before, it is necessary to ensure that the economic balance is correct,” he added.
Without voting rights on the matter, Brown said he trusts the assessment of the responsible entities: “If they understand that this is good for the sport, then we will have a 12th team. If they conclude that it is not, we will continue with what we currently have,” he concluded.
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