USF1 told to re-apply by FIA

No place for Stefan GP as 12 teams are confirmed for 2010

Last updated: 4th March 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

USF1 told to re-apply by FIA

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The FIA has confirmed the starting line-up for this season, with 12 teams making the grid and no place for either USF1 or Stefan GP.

It means a total of 24 cars will line up in Bahrain on Sunday week and not the 26 as expected, with no place for the cash-strapped American team.

Indeed, the FIA has insisted USF1 - who had asked for their entry to be deferred until 2011 - will have to submit a new application to enter next year's championship.

Stefan GP, run by Serbian businessman Zoran Stefanovic and who are based in Toyota's old headquarters in Cologne, had been waiting in the wings in the hope of being granted an 11th-hour slot.

But as with USF1, Stefan GP will now have to wait until 2011 before they can apply for a place on the grid.

"Having considered the various options, the FIA confirms that it is not possible for a replacement team to be entered for the championship at this late stage," the FIA said in a statement.

"In the coming days the FIA will announce details of a new selection process to identify candidates to fill any vacancies existing at the start of the 2011 season."

Problems

USF1's problems started a few months ago after sponsors started to pull out, which led to production on the car grinding to a halt.

The team have since struggled to pay wages on time, whilst several members of staff have chosen to leave.

Despite that, USF1 still announced the signing of their first driver at the end of January in Argentinian Jose Maria Lopez.

Lopez, financed by £5million worth of sponsorship, is now without a drive for this year, although he appears likely to be handed the test and reserve role with HRT F1, formerly Campos Meta.

The FIA also confirmed that the BMW Sauber team will retain the 'BMW' in their name despite parting ways with the manufacturer.