Andretti remains steadfast in its pursuit to join the Formula 1 grid in 2026, undeterred by the obstacles posed by FOM.
Earlier this year, Andretti inched closer to its F1 aspirations when the FIA greenlit its application, acknowledging its potential to enhance the competitiveness of the sport. However, the hopes of the Indianapolis-based team were dashed when FOM vetoed their advancement.
Since the signing of the Concorde Agreement in 2020, Andretti has stood out as a prime example of a prospective new entrant into F1. The agreement stipulates a hefty $200 million entry fee, designed to offset the potential loss of prize money due to dilution.
But meeting the financial requirement is just one piece of the puzzle. Andretti must also demonstrate its ability to contribute “value” to the sport, a somewhat nebulous criterion that poses a significant challenge to prove.
Formula 1’s discretion in interpreting this requirement has allowed them the leeway to reject Andretti’s bid for entry.
Despite Andretti’s investments in operational facilities in the United States and the United Kingdom, as well as its partnership with General Motors, the team’s financial and infrastructural prowess has not swayed FOM’s decision.
Moreover, there looms the prospect of teams consenting to a higher entry fee once the Concorde Agreement expires, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
Craig Slater recently provided insights into their dedication to Formula 1:
“They’ve got around about 120 staff already here in the UK,” he informed Sky Sports.
“The ambition is to have 400 [in Silverstone] and 700 over in America. So the car will be designed here, the aerodynamics will be here and it will be built over in the States.
“Indianapolis is where they have most of their factory units.”
In terms of manpower, Haas F1 currently boasts approximately 300 staff, providing context to Andretti’s capacity. Despite this, FOM’s official response to their bids for the 2025 and 2026 seasons was a resounding no.
Nevertheless, Andretti isn’t throwing in the towel just yet. Ultimately, it’s the FIA, as the sport’s governing body, that holds the authority to decide who participates in Formula 1. However, given that FOM controls commercial rights, securing an agreement with them is crucial for sustained participation in F1.
Fortunately for Andretti, the backing of the FIA offers them avenues to persist in their F1 aspirations. In the coming months, the saga for the eleventh team in Formula 1 will continue to unfold with new developments.
