DARLINGTON, S.C. – NASCAR owner Gene Haas says he has been granted a license from Formula One's governing body to start what he hopes will be a U.S.-based entry in the global series.
Haas received documents from the FIA on Thursday, according to Stewart-Haas spokesman Mike Arming. Haas co-owns a NASCAR team with Tony Stewart that fields drivers Stewart, Kevin Harvick, Danica Patrick and Kurt Busch.
Haas thanked the FIA for its decision in a statement Friday. He says it is an exciting time for those hoping to see "an American team return to Formula One."
Formula One chief Bernie Ecclestone said this past Sunday at the Bahrain Gran Prix that the U.S.-backed team led by Haas would likely join the series next season.
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.