The US Department of Justice is conducting a probe into the decision made by Liberty Media to decline Andretti’s bid. Although the FIA accepted Andretti’s entry into the sport last October, Formula One Management did not give them the green light. FOM expressed doubts about Andretti’s ability to be competitive by 2025 but stated that they would reconsider the venture in 2028. Despite this setback, Andretti is persisting in their efforts to become the 11th team on the grid. They have recently opened a new headquarters at Silverstone and have been actively recruiting new staff.
Concerns over a potential violation of antitrust laws in relation to Andretti were raised by Members of the United States Congress earlier this year. Liberty Media CEO Greg Maffei has confirmed that the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division is investigating the legal aspects of F1’s decision to reject Andretti’s bid. Maffei assured that Liberty Media will fully cooperate with the investigation and provide any requested information. He also stated that they believe their decision was in compliance with all applicable US antitrust laws, and they have previously explained the reasoning behind their choice regarding Andretti.
While both the teams and the FIA have advised Andretti to consider purchasing an existing team, Maffei emphasized that Liberty Media and F1 are not opposed to expanding the grid. He mentioned that there is a specific process for expansion that requires approval from the FIA and F1. If the criteria are met, they are open to new entrants submitting applications and potentially being approved for participation in the sport.
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