McLaren CEO Zak Brown has expressed concerns regarding the operational feasibility of a twelfth Formula 1 team, specifically citing limitations in pit lane capacity at various circuits on the current calendar. Brown’s comments come amid ongoing discussions about potential grid expansion.
Formula 1 currently operates with eleven teams, following Cadillac’s entry to the grid for the 2026 season. This marks the first time since 2016 that the sport has featured an eleven-team lineup.
Rumours suggest Chinese manufacturer BYD is exploring a potential entry into Formula 1. Stella Li, BYD’s vice-president, has reportedly held meetings with Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner.
It remains unclear whether BYD intends to establish an entirely new team, partner with an existing operation, or become a power unit supplier. Brown stated that while he has not extensively considered the prospect of a twelfth team, pit lane space is an immediate concern.
‘I haven’t thought about it,’ said Brown. ‘I guess if I want to give it two seconds of thought, you’ve got operational issues with some of the circuits, whether they could have the capacity.’
Brown maintains that the ultimate decision rests with the FIA and Formula 1 management. He believes the economic balance must be correct and the expansion beneficial for the sport.
The discussion around new entries follows the rejection of Andretti Global’s bid for a 2025 or 2026 entry by Formula One Management (FOM) in January 2024. The FIA had previously approved Andretti’s application in 2023.
FOM cited concerns about Andretti’s potential competitiveness and the value an eleventh team would add to the championship. They also noted the operational burden on race promoters and a lack of significant positive commercial impact.
The door for Andretti’s entry was left open for the 2028 season, particularly if General Motors were to join as a power unit supplier. Michael Andretti could face an entry fee of $600 million under new Concorde Agreement negotiations.
The 2026 Formula 1 season introduced significant regulation changes, including revised power unit configurations, new active aerodynamics, and reduced car dimensions. Audi, having acquired Sauber, entered as a works team this season.
New FIA Formula One Financial Regulations also came into effect on January 1, 2026. These regulations aim to enhance competitive balance, sporting fairness, and the long-term financial stability of F1 teams.
Brown has also recently advocated for stricter rules against team alliances and co-ownership. In May 2026, he formally wrote to FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, arguing that such partnerships compromise the sport’s integrity.
