'We will never participate in Formula 1 just to put a sticker on the side of a car'

Over recent months, BYD has been linked with Formula 1 more and more frequently, driven by the sport's increasing focus on electrification and the Chinese automotive giant's continued growth and impressive performance in the global car market.

Back in April, BYD vice president Stella Li revealed that the company had met with Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali in Shanghai and confirmed the two sides remain in regular contact. She also highlighted Formula 1's unique appeal, describing it as a championship built on passion and culture, while acknowledging that being involved in the sport is something many companies aspire to: “We met with Stefano Domenicali in Shanghai and we’re always in close contact. I like F1 because it’s all about passion and culture, and people dream of being part of it.”

GPblog understands that BYD is exploring multiple avenues for a potential future in Formula 1, with a technical partnership similar to those between Ford and Red Bull or Toyota and Haas among the options under consideration. Sponsorship also remains a possibility. A more direct entry into the championship has not been ruled out either, although such a move would present significant challenges.

As quoted by Soy Motor, Altavilla explained that BYD would only consider entering the championship if its technology could make a meaningful contribution to the sport, making it clear that BYD has no interest in joining Formula 1 purely for branding or marketing purposes.

According to the Italian executive, the only scenario in which the Chinese manufacturer would seriously evaluate an entry would be as a genuine technology partner, although he acknowledged that such a possibility would depend on how the new regulations are ultimately shaped.