Team owners debate addition to grid

There have been three applications to fill the vacant 12th spot, including one from Toyota and another from Team Lotus owner David Hunt.

However the Japanese giant is unlikely to enter for another two years.

Little is known of the other two bids, although one is believed to be spearheaded by Robin Herd, one of the founders of the now-defunct March team.

Although there is a 12th slot available, team owners are believed to be considering limiting the number of teams to 11.

One option would be for a new entrant to join forces with an existing team, guaranteeing the financial security of the current team owners.

Alternatively, new teams could be forced to put down a massive bond which they forfeit it they did not fulfil their promise.

Honda was originally earmarked to take the vacant spot, but opted instead to supply engines to British American Racing.