Formula 1’s grid will likely remain at ten teams for the foreseeable future, despite persistent efforts by Andretti-Cadillac to become the eleventh entrant. Since 2017, the pinnacle of motorsport has operated with ten teams following the bankruptcy of Manor Racing, and while the FIA initially supported expansion, Formula 1’s commercial arm has shown no intention of budging.
The Andretti-Cadillac project, backed by the influential Michael Andretti and GM’s Cadillac brand, was the leading candidate for grid expansion. The bid gained the FIA’s approval, yet it hit a wall during commercial negotiations with Formula One Management (FOM). The American outfit’s proposal ultimately faced rejection, despite support from certain quarters, including members of the US House of Representatives who questioned F1’s decision.
Recent developments indicate that Andretti may have thrown in the towel—at least for now. Michael Andretti has stepped down from his ownership role at Andretti Global, the organization spearheading the F1 effort, amid Cadillac’s conspicuous silence over its future involvement. Without confirmation from Cadillac and with Andretti stepping back, the American venture seems to have lost momentum, casting doubt over any immediate plans to continue its fight for a spot on the grid.
Formula 1 appears resolute in its decision, showing no inclination to entertain further bids for new teams. The sport’s leadership has made it clear that prospective entrants should instead look to buy stakes in existing teams under the sport’s ‘franchise’ model. This model, designed to boost the value of the current teams and protect the financial health of the sport, reflects F1’s reluctance to disrupt the balance it has achieved over the past few years.
As the sport’s popularity and profitability have surged—fueled by events like Netflix’s Drive to Survive and expansion into new markets—F1’s ten teams have become increasingly valuable. The sport has navigated economic hurdles, including the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, and its current model prioritizes stability and the protection of the established teams’ interests.
Fans hoping for an expanded grid and the return of 22 cars on race weekends are likely to be disappointed. Formula 1’s business strategy focuses on maximizing the value and exclusivity of its current lineup, and any new entry will likely need to adhere to this approach by acquiring a stake in an existing team rather than being added as a fresh entity. For now, the grid remains closed, with F1 emphasizing the financial sustainability of its current participants over expansion.
