Andretti-Cadillac may be forced to acquire an existing team to enter Formula 1. Andretti’s attempt to join the Formula 1 grid as the 11th team was previously denied by F1. However, support for the American constructor persisted as they continued to try to change F1’s decision. Even the United States Congress got involved, asking several questions to authorities about the rejection. In the midst of this, Christian Horner proposed an alternative route for Andretti.
On several occasions, it was suggested that Andretti Cadillac should acquire an existing team on the grid. Horner pointed out that Formula 1 would be willing to reconsider the rejected proposal if Andretti committed to building their own engine by 2028. He also highlighted Audi’s acquisition of Sauber as an example and recommended a similar approach for Andretti to join the grid.
However, if Formula 1 wants to maintain its current franchises and stability, Andretti would need to reconsider. According to Horner, the best way for Andretti to join the grid would be to acquire one of the existing teams. The rejection was not based on the American brand, but rather on Formula 1’s business model, making this method more favorable for Andretti.
Audi is ready to enter the Formula 1 grid through the acquisition of Sauber in 2026 due to regulatory changes. Horner emphasized that Audi has shown the right way to enter the grid. Additionally, Andretti’s partnership with Cadillac strengthens their case. However, Formula 1 is unlikely to change its final decision to refuse the addition of the 11th team.
De plus, Horner a mentionné que la Formule 1 offrait un chemin clair à toute équipe voulant y entrer. Ainsi, Andretti est consciente des différentes façons possibles d’intégrer la grille dans un avenir proche. Cependant, si Andretti reste obstinée quant à ses conditions, elle pourrait faire face à une réalité difficile en ce qui concerne l’inclusion de l’équipe dans la grille.
Malgré les rejets constants, Andretti n’a pas reculé. L’équipe a récemment établi sa propre usine à Silverstone pour le développement du châssis. De plus, elle a atteint un nombre similaire d’employés à l’équipe Haas F1. Ainsi, les perspectives de l’équipe entièrement américaine pour entrer dans la grille semblent positives.
