F1 to select extra team as standby next 2 seasons

Mar 19, 2010 - 6:30 PM PARIS(AP) -- An extra team will be selected as a standby for the next two Formula One championships in case there is an unexpected vacancy on the grid at the start of the season.

Ruling body FIA said Friday it "may also identify one or more possible reserve entrants to fill such vacancies" during a new selection process that is being launched.

Candidates are being asked to formally express their interest before April 15, with a final decision on the standby team being made in July.

The move follows the failure of US F1 to take its place on the grid when the 2010 season started in Bahrain. FIA decided not to replace the American team, leaving two empty places on the grid.

There are currently 12 teams competing in F1.