Domenicali is not thinking about adding F1 teams despite shortage of seats

Every year during the silly season, it becomes clear just how exclusive the club of F1 drivers is. There are only 20 seats, while there are many more talented and strong drivers claiming a spot. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali says freeing up more places for drivers is not a priority.

Creating more space in F1 is not a priority

There is a good chance that eight-time race winner Daniel Ricciardo will miss out on a seat in 2023, although the Australian had no intention of retiring just yet. Competition for a spot in F1 is cutthroat and this has become evident again in the 2023 silly season. Despite interest from car brands and sports teams to start an F1 team, which also frees up space for more drivers on the F1 grid, F1 is not yet thinking of expanding the field.

Thus, Domenicali let Sky Sports know: "As always, there has to be a balance. You have to see everything around the table. Having more drivers... In the end, there is always a limit at which you have to keep it. By adding one or two teams you create a few spots for drivers, but we also have to keep the right dimension that makes the sport successful." Domenicali puts the focus on the sustainability of the teams and says it should not get busier. "In terms of priorities, this is not something for Formula 1 today."

The one commitment the Italian does seem to be making is just a chance for the future. Indeed, Domenicali is not ruling out the possible arrival of teams like Andretti for a few years from now: "I think it is time to invest in the future, but we have to remain balanced. So I'm not saying it won't happen, but we have to do it step by step."