BYD confirms its interest in F1: Will there soon be a Chinese team in the top tier?

Written by Sonia Romero
BYD confirms its interest in F1: Will there soon be a Chinese team in the top tier?
Credit: Rencontre entre Mohammed Ben Sulayem, président de la FIA, et Stefano Domenicali, PDG de la F1, au Grand Prix du Qatar 2025. Crédit photo Overtake Agency / Romain Mathon

Formula 1 has always attracted the big names in the automotive industry. But lately, it's mainly the new giants that have been knocking on the door. And the latest addition isn't there just to make up the numbers: BYD.

The news is no longer just a paddock rumor. Stella Li, vice president of the Chinese automaker, has confirmed regular discussions with Stefano Domenicali, F1's CEO.

A meeting took place in Shanghai, on the sidelines of the Chinese Grand Prix. And judging by the statements, we're already well beyond a simple “we'll keep in touch.”

BYD is actively exploring options to join the sport. How? That remains unclear. But the interest is very real.

An industrial giant moving fast

While the name may seem new to F1, it carries significant weight in the industry. BYD is now the global leader in electric vehicles, ahead of Tesla.

With considerable resources and rapid growth, the group has more than enough means to support its ambitions. The question remains: in what form might it enter F1—

  • a full team?
  • an engine supplier?
  • a major technical or commercial partner?

For now, all options are on the table.

F1 in line with their DNA

The timing is no coincidence. Starting this year, F1 has shifted to even more hybrid power units, with a nearly 50/50 split between electric and internal combustion, powered by sustainable fuels.

In other words: a playing field perfectly aligned with BYD's expertise, as the company develops both 100% electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.

Behind the expressed interest lies a clear rationale: to test its technologies in the most demanding environment of motorsports.

The door isn't closed… far from it

From the governing bodies' perspective, the message is quite clear. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, president of the International Automobile Federation, has already expressed support for the arrival of a new team—provided it brings real value.

There's no question of expanding the grid “just for show.” But a strategic entry, particularly into a market as massive as China, ticks many boxes.

A grid that continues to evolve

F1 already has 11 teams this year with the arrival of Cadillac, backed by General Motors. It's a structured project, with a gradual ramp-up toward factory team status.

In this context, the idea of a 12th team is no longer taboo. It's even becoming credible… if the proposal is solid.

More than just a business matter

BYD's interest goes beyond a simple marketing campaign. Today, F1 stands at the crossroads of performance, innovation, and the energy transition.

And for a manufacturer in the midst of global expansion, it's hard to find a better showcase.

Well, we're not quite at the point of seeing a red-and-white BYD-branded single-seater on the grid yet. But discussions are underway, the context is favorable, and the doors aren't closed.

In F1, great stories often start like this: a meeting, a few exchanges… and a lot of ambition.

It remains to be seen whether this one will go all the way.