The Detroit-based rivals engage in weekly competitions in various other racing series, such as NASCAR. However, Ford is now seeking an opportunity to directly challenge GM in the future, showcasing its technology.
GM, operating under its Cadillac brand, is part of the Andretti Cadillac venture. Unfortunately, Formula One Management (FOM) denied their request to expand the current F1 grid from 10 teams to 11. Although the FIA approved Michael Andretti’s proposal, FOM firmly rejected the application.
As Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance, prepares to participate in the F1 race in Monaco this weekend, he is urging the series to give Andretti and Cadillac a chance. Rushbrook expressed his thoughts in a phone interview with the Associated Press before heading to the Monaco Grand Prix.
“We participate in racing to compete against other manufacturers and, although there are already numerous manufacturers in Formula 1, we would be very happy to welcome General Motors to the sport,” Rushbrook stated. “General Motors has the ability to enter as an independent power unit manufacturer, without being tied to a specific team. They could partner with one of the 10 existing teams. So, we welcome them with open arms. The same goes for Andretti. We certainly have no objections to their participation.”
Reuss, in response to Rushbrook’s comments, expressed his gratitude and also extended a welcome to Ford in the world of IndyCar, as this would enhance American open-wheel racing.
Currently, Ford does not participate in IndyCar, while Chevrolet dominates the top eight positions on the starting grid of the Indianapolis 500.
Formula One Management seems to have softened its stance towards Andretti after holding at least two recent meetings. They have promised to reconsider the application in 2028, when General Motors will have a competitive engine ready for F1.
Andretti was aiming to join the grid in 2025 with the support of GM and has been actively working on racing cars from a newly established facility in England. In a significant move, Andretti recently hired F1’s chief technical director, Pat Symonds.
Rushbrook praised the FIA and FOM for their smooth announcement in 2023 about Red Bull’s entry into F1. He even mentioned that both sides have been welcoming in anticipation of Ford’s arrival.
“As an American company, we were able to enter the sport without obstacles,” explained Rusbrook. “Gene Haas also managed to establish a team without facing barriers. So, it is possible to find a way to enter the sport; it simply depends on how you choose to enter.”
Andretti, on the other hand, had a markedly different experience. He faced criticism for trying to expand the grid and potentially reduce the revenue of existing teams. FOM, in their letter rejecting the application, even questioned Andretti’s ability to form a competitive team and downplayed the value of the Andretti family name.
NBC reported on Wednesday night that Mario Andretti, father of Michael Andretti, had a confrontation with Liberty Media CEO, owner of Formula 1, during a private event in Miami earlier this month. Mario Andretti, a renowned figure in the racing world and F1 champion in 1978, was approached by Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, who asked about his recent visit to Washington, D.C. Andretti explained that he had been invited by lawmakers to speak outside the Capitol, advocating for his application to establish the 11th F1 team. However, Greg Maffei, who was also present, interrupted the conversation and expressed his determination to prevent Michael Andretti from joining Formula 1. According to Andretti, Maffei abruptly left the conversation and has not contacted him since. NBC News reached out to Mario Andretti and Formula 1 for comment, but did not receive an immediate response. (Report by Jenna Fryer)
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Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton achieved another impressive victory at the Brazilian Grand Prix this Sunday. With an incredible performance, Hamilton led the race from start to finish, leaving his competitors behind. This victory brings Hamilton closer to matching Michael Schumacher’s record of seven world titles.
The race was thrilling from the start, with Hamilton starting in pole position and maintaining the lead throughout all laps. His teammate, Valtteri Bottas, also had a strong performance, finishing in second place. Max Verstappen from the Red Bull team completed the podium in third place.
Hamilton demonstrated once again his exceptional ability to deal with adverse weather conditions. The heavy rain that fell during the race made the circuit slippery and challenging, but Hamilton did not let himself be discouraged. He showed absolute control of the car and managed to maintain his lead over the other competitors.
With this victory, Hamilton extends his lead in the world championship for drivers. He is now just one point away from securing his eighth title, which would make him the most successful driver in Formula 1 history. Hamilton’s fans are excited about his performance and eagerly await the next race.
The next stage of the championship will be the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which will take place next month. Hamilton is determined to achieve another victory and close the season on a high note. It will be an exciting race, with many fans waiting to see if Hamilton can achieve his goal and make history in Formula 1.
