F1 chief Ecclestone: Gene Haas bid for US team likely admitted in 2015

Published Apr. 6, 2014 7:01 a.m. ET

foxsports

SAKHIR, Bahrain -- Formula One commercial chief Bernie Ecclestone says a US-backed team headed by Gene Haas is among two new teams the sport is likely to admit next season.

Speaking on Sunday ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix, Ecclestone said he had held discussions with the sport's governing body, the FIA, and there was agreement about expanding the grid next season.

Asked about the chances for the Haas-backed team being admitted, Ecclestone said: "They will be accepted, and we've also accepted another team as well, although whether they'll make it or not is another story", adding "I've spoken to (FIA President) Jean Todt and we agreed yesterday."