US F1 team could face action over failure to be ready

Boss Peter Windsor and driver Jose Maria Lopez missed out with US F1

The US F1 team could be punished by the International Automobile Federation (FIA) for failing to be ready in time to race in the 2010 world championship.

The American team were due to be one of four new entrants this year but asked for a one-year delay to their entry.

"The world council mandated the FIA president to take forward the most appropriate action," said a statement.

President Jean Todt will conduct an inquiry before the world motorsport council judging body returns a verdict.

The Serbian-based Stefan team tried to fill the gap left on the grid by US F1's failure to be ready, but had their bid rejected.

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The FIA also revealed that its world council had approved a new selection process for a potential 13th entry, and reserve 14th team, for the 2011 championship, and that India will host a race next year.

That may lead to an expansion of the calendar to a record 20 races.