Concerns have emerged about Andretti’s efforts to join the grid – following an F1 news report from the AP.
For several weeks now, speculations have surrounded Andretti and General Motors’ entry into F1. Having passed the necessary checks and requirements imposed by the FIA, talks have begun between the American entrant and FOM – F1 management.
Generally speaking, Andretti has faced sustained opposition from existing teams. For almost two years, team principals have questioned whether an 11th team is necessary. Moreover, the issue of “added value” is often raised when discussing Andretti’s bid.
In a sport where politics is so pivotal, the environment towards the American group has been very hostile. There is no set deadline for when F1 must reach a decision on whether to accept or deny the application – adding further uncertainty to this process.
Money plays a key factor
Financial issues are also cited as a significant sticking point. On paper, Formula 1 is in the healthiest it has ever been financially. The budget cap has seen the likes of Mercedes and Red Bull go from spending $400 million annually to around $150 million. As such, it is inaccurate to suggest that Andretti’s entry would jeopardise any existing team.
Unfortunately for the US outfit, this doesn’t stop teams from complaining about prize money. The reduced “slice” of the prize money teams will receive if Andretti joins (i.e. dilution) is another area teams often cite.
However, there have been some positive developments for Andretti. Despite the opposition among existing teams, it is ultimately the decision of Formula 1 to accept or deny them. In this sense, the above grievances are not necessarily detrimental to their aspirations.
Additionally, there are legal implications of the decision F1 takes. Simply put, Andretti has the option to take legal action if FOM do not accept their entry for 2025. Of course, this is not an ideal path for any party involved.
Still, it gives the American team an ace up their sleeve. If the sport wants to avoid the public backlash and scrutiny that a legal case would involve, reaching some kind of compromise should be the priority.
F1 want General Motors… but not with Andretti
With all this context in mind, new information has emerged that sheds some light on the dynamics at play.
According to sources from the Associated Press, Formula 1 has asked General Motors if they will partner with a team other than Andretti. This is a direct snub from FOM to the American team, underscoring their resistance to an 11th team joining the grid.
If F1 has indeed asked GM to join the field – but with another team – then it cannot be said Andretti is not adding value.
At this stage, the outcome of negotiations is uncertain. It is entirely possible an agreement will be reached within the next few months.
Andretti is operating under the assumption they will be in Formula 1. They have already built a car according to the 2023 specifications, which they will test in Germany.
Regrettably, however, it seems that F1 is still very resistant to Andretti joining the field. There is the potential for this saga to become drawn-out and grossly unpopular. FOM must tread carefully if they are to avoid another bad PR episode for the sport.
