NASCAR's Gene Haas granted Formula 1 entry for 2015 season

The American NASCAR team owner confirmed on Friday that he had been informed by the FIA his application to join the F1 grid had been successful.

It comes after a lengthy evaluation process to ensure that Haas had the financial means and necessary infrastructure to commit to the sport.

In a statement, Haas welcomed the FIA decision, although knew that the granting of the entry marked only the start of a huge effort to get on to the grid.

"Obviously, we're extremely pleased to have been granted a Formula 1 licence by the FIA," he said.

"It's an exciting time for me, Haas Automation and anyone who wanted to see an American team return to Formula 1.

"Now, the really hard work begins. It's a challenge we embrace as we work to put cars on the grid.

"I want to thank the FIA for this opportunity and the diligence everyone put forth to see our licence application come to fruition."

Haas is hoping to announce further details about his F1 operation next week.

The success of the Haas entry comes just a few years after the efforts of another American team, USF1, failed to come off.

FORZA ROSSA ALSO BEING CONSIDERED

F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone suggested at last weekend's Bahrain Grand Prix that Haas may not be the only team that gets an entry for 2015.

The FIA confirmed that it was evaluating another entry from an outfit called Forza Rossa, but a final decision on it getting the nod had not been taken.

Although no further details were released, sources have suggested that this is a bid being put together by former F1 team principal Colin Kolles.