BMW Is Not Joining Formula 1, Focuses on LMDh project

BMW has been very quiet regarding its presence in the Formula 1 races. In a recent interview, Frank Van Meel, the M boss finally broke the silence. He confirmed that BMW is not joining Formula 1, and decides to focus on its LMDh project instead.

As Audi and Porsche confirmed their presence in the Formula 1 races in 2026, BMW affirmed its absence. But not without a concrete reason and plan for the future. Van Meel decisively said that BMW is not joining and does not have any ambitions for Formula 1. However, the company will continue to focus on the LMDh project.

In the interview, Van Meel said, “For us, it’s really important to have the [electrification] story of transformation embraced as fast as possible. Formula 1 is still discussing the regulations around electrification. So for us, it was very clear. Let’s go faster into that [electrification] segment.” The intention of the BMW M is clear; to be the first in the electrification of Formula 1.

The LMDh project is also the perfect setup for testing BMW M’s technology on the racing road. According to Van Meel, the LMDh cars will carry a type of V8 plug-in hybrid powertrain. BMW introduced this on the BMW XM and is likely to appear on BMW M5 G90. Overall, BMW Motorsports will focus on the LMDh project, also known as the IMSA GTP.

The Munich-based carmaker announced that it will develop the LMDh prototype in June 2021. They also plan to race it starting from 2023. However, the head of the motorsport division announced that the LMDh will not race in the 2023 Hours of Le Mans.

Still, the good news is that it might debut in the endurance race in 2024. It will also be a nod to the 25th anniversary of V12 LMR, which won at Le Mans in 1999.