New F1 team aims to debut in 2022 despite coronavirus

Panthera's wish to compete in Formula 1 does not come out of the blue. The team actually wanted to make its entry in 2021, together with the introduction of the new regulations. That plan was only blocked by Ross Brawn, who stated that new teams can only compete in 2022.

By postponing the regulations the new rules will be introduced at the same time. According to AMuS, it is a good time to join new teams. The plans of Panthera remain the same. "Because of the virus, it's been quite a roller coaster, but we're still alive. The project hasn't been cancelled yet," says project manager Benjamin Durand to Motorsport.com.

"Before the current crisis we were already aiming for 2022 and we're looking to see if we can still start that season. In our team there are already people working on the car, doing preliminary work for the aerodynamics and besides that we are still busy with sponsors", says Durand about the progress of the project.

Unknown factors

Which parts Panthera is going to get from other teams, and which ones, is still unknown. Informal agreements were made before the coronavirus outbreak, but a lot can change with the crisis. "We first want to wait and see what will happen to Formula 1. For example, there is talk of a possibility to purchase a customer car. We need to look at that option."

If all those things are taken care of, there is no guarantee that Panthera Team Asia Formula 1 will be on the grid in 2022. The team first has to make an official request to get permission to participate. This has not yet been submitted.