BYD and Geely have approached the FIA about potentially entering Formula 1, with the sport’s governing body confirming discussions with both Chinese automakers, according to a report by Grande Prêmio.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem identified the two companies during the New Economy Forum in Madrid. However, neither manufacturer has secured an agreement, and the FIA is not currently running a process to expand the grid beyond its existing 11 teams.
Ben Sulayem said he had suggested that BYD acquire an existing team rather than establish a new operation. The company was reportedly more interested in building its own team and was asked to submit a serious proposal demonstrating the project’s viability.
He also stressed that Chinese manufacturers would face the same entry requirements as other applicants, without special treatment or changes to regulations.
BYD and Geely Explore Motorsport Opportunities
BYD’s interest in Formula 1 has been discussed throughout 2026. Executive Vice President Stella Li previously confirmed meetings with F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali in Shanghai, describing a possible entry as an ongoing discussion.
However, the company has not committed to a programme. In July, Li said:
“the dream is always there, but we don’t have a concrete agenda”
BYD special advisor Alfredo Altavilla also said the company would only consider entering the championship if its technology could contribute meaningfully to the sport.
“We will never participate in Formula 1 just to put a sticker on the side of a car.”
Geely is the other manufacturer named by Ben Sulayem. The group sold 3.02 million vehicles last year and owns automotive brands including Volvo, Polestar and Lotus.
F1 Engine Regulations Could Complicate Entry
A potential Formula 1 entry presents a strategic challenge for electric vehicle manufacturers because the championship is reconsidering the balance between combustion and electric power.
The 2026 power units introduced a roughly 50:50 split between combustion and electric output, with the MGU-K electric motor delivering up to 350 kW.
However, the FIA agreed in June to shift the balance towards combustion power, targeting a 60:40 split for 2027 and 2028. Ben Sulayem has also advocated for V8 engines running on sustainable fuels with limited electrification for the next regulatory cycle, potentially beginning in 2030 or 2031.
The discussions highlight a potential mismatch between the FIA’s interest in attracting Chinese EV manufacturers and its longer-term engine ambitions.