FIA boss Ben Sulayem hints at Chinese F1 team, deals potential blow to Hong Kong GP hopes
With his controversial first term as FIA president ending in December, and a second term almost certain, Ben Sulayem's opinion carries significant weight.
That might not be good news for Hong Kong, with officials pushing for the city to bid to host a grand prix, but could mean an extension of mainland China's influence, where Shanghai has been confirmed through the 2030 F1 season.
According to Ben Sulayem, 'talks' with a Chinese manufacturer were ongoing for a 12th entry into the F1 grid, and it was something he would support from an economic and sporting perspective.
'I still feel that we need more teams [rather] than more races,' he said. 'If there is a Chinese bid I will speak on behalf of Formula One management now, they will agree on that because it is good for business.
The Chinese grand prix has delivered a huge economic boost. Photo: Reuters
'Think of the long term. If there is another team from China, they [will] approve it, 100 per cent they will approve it. Wouldn't it make more money with China coming in? I believe [so], yes. Do we have to fill up another 12th team for the sake of filling up that 12th team? No, it will be the right team.'
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