Currently reading: Stefan GP not granted F1 entry

12 teams will line up on the grid in Bahrain next weekend following US F1's withdrawal

The FIA has denied Serbian Formula One hopeful Stefan GP the chance of racing in the sport this season following the collapse of US F1.

US F1 finally confirmed yesterday it would not be taking part in this year’s championship as it had no car to race, nor the required funds to develop the car.

Stefan GP, using the chassis and engine Toyota had already developed for 2010 before pulling out, had already sent containers to Bahrain and Malaysia to cover the team for the first four races and was hopeful of securing F1’s 13th entry following US F1’s collapse.

But the FIA has confirmed that only 12 teams will take part in this year’s championship and it was instead poised to open the application process for the 2011 season instead.

“The US F1 Team have indicated that they will not be in a position to participate in the 2010 FIA Formula One World Championship,” said the FIA in a statement.

“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.

“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.”

Twitter - follow autocar.co.uk

Join our WhatsApp community and be the first to read about the latest news and reviews wowing the car world. Our community is the best, easiest and most direct place to tap into the minds of Autocar, and if you join you’ll also be treated to unique WhatsApp content. You can leave at any time after joining - check our full privacy policy here.