F1 and Andretti continue their back-and-forth negotiations, with the American outfit aiming for a grid slot in 2025.
The last team to join the F1 grid was Haas, with Guenther Steiner’s squad making their entry in the 2016 season. Since then, Andretti has been the only group to receive FIA approval to join the field – although this doesn’t guarantee their presence.
From a sporting perspective, there is little more the American outfit can prove. Aside from their tremendous investment in developing the necessary facilities and infrastructure, they have partnered with General Motors.
This adds a tremendous level of firepower to their F1 entry bid. Not only are they offering a new team on the grid, but they are bringing a manufacturer with them.
More recently, General Motors has left no doubts about how seriously they take this project. They have committed to joining Formula 1 in 2028 as an engine supplier, adding to the long list of manufacturers commuting to the sport.
F1 with no direct response to General Motors
Specifically related to Andretti, this is a very positive boost for their entry. Negotiations with Liberty Media will be made significantly easier with a brand as well-known as GM. Still, it is unclear whether this will be enough.
As mentioned in previous weeks, it will be tough for F1 to reject Andretti outright. There are also mechanisms the US outfit can use to escalate the situation if they do not receive approval.
However, assuming the American outfit is guaranteed a place in the sport would be incorrect. After GM’s recent commitment to joining the field as an engine manufacturer, Formula 1 did not comment on this recent development. They only mentioned their continued evaluation process.
This is a stark contrast to the celebrations that surrounded Ford’s engine announcement earlier in 2023. FOM continues to play its cards close to its chest, making it difficult to read how this process will unfold.
At this weekend’s Las Vegas GP, negotiations are expected to continue. It remains to be seen whether in-person discussions help ease doubts or address any areas of disagreement.
Until then, there is no timeline for when Andretti and F1 will cease negotiations.
