Michael Andretti, President and CEO of Andretti Global, made an appearance at the Miami Grand Prix in Florida, USA, on May 5, 2024. Formula 1 team bosses advised Andretti to wait until his Cadillac power unit is ready in 2028 or consider buying an existing entry. Despite Formula One Management rejecting his plans to join the grid in 2026, Andretti’s work is progressing rapidly. They have established a new base in Silverstone, hired Nick Chester as their Technical Director, and enlisted the expertise of former F1 Chief Technical Officer Pat Symonds as a consultant. However, there is currently no agreement in place for Andretti to enter the grid in 2026. Mario Andretti, 1978 drivers’ champion, stated that Greg Maffei of Liberty Media has expressed intentions to block the team’s entry into the series. Christian Horner, Red Bull team principal, acknowledged Andretti’s racing heritage and expressed willingness to welcome the team. However, Horner emphasized that previous concerns from FOM still apply. Alessandro Alunni Bravi, representative of the Sauber team, agreed with Horner and highlighted the imminent acquisition of 100% of Sauber by Audi. Interestingly, Andretti did not reach an agreement with Sauber in 2021 when they tried to acquire the team. Bravi stated that Audi’s approach is the right way to enter Formula 1 and suggested that Andretti consider buying an existing team, as established by the Formula 1 process. The head of the Alpine team emphasized the importance of preserving the championship value for teams and being cautious not to dilute it.
Amid Andretti’s ongoing struggle to secure a spot in Formula 1, the United States government also expressed its opinion on the matter. In an extraordinary turn of events, members of the United States Congress wrote a letter to Liberty Media before the Miami Grand Prix in May, seeking clarification on Andretti’s unsuccessful attempt to enter F1. The letter expressed concerns about possible anti-competitive actions that could harm the participation of two American companies, Andretti Global and General Motors (GM), in the sport.
RB CEO Peter Bayer and Horner addressed this issue on Friday, emphasizing that Formula 1 is not biased against Americans and reaffirming their commitment to protecting the existing teams in the sport. Bayer stated that well-defined procedures are in place, with the FIA conducting technical assessments and Formula 1 evaluating commercial potential. He also highlighted the sport’s efforts to engage with the United States, including hosting three races there and sponsoring two American companies.
Horner added that Red Bull is owned by the US and proudly displays the logos of five Fortune 500 companies on its car. He emphasized that the situation is not about Andretti being American, but rather about the Formula 1 business model. Horner praised Liberty for creating a strong and financially stable environment in the sport, where even the weakest team has a significant valuation. He commended Liberty for opening up the sport and attracting new fans, while expressing surprise at Andretti’s chosen approach. Horner suggested that if Andretti truly wants a spot on the grid, they should consider acquiring an existing team willing to sell as the most natural solution.
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The Formula 1 driver, Lewis Hamilton, achieved an impressive victory at the Monaco Grand Prix last Sunday. Hamilton, who is considered one of the greatest drivers of all time, showcased his skill and determination by leading the race from start to finish.
The race was thrilling from the beginning, with several overtakes and tense moments. However, Hamilton managed to stay ahead of his competitors and crossed the finish line in first place, securing another win for his team.
With this victory, Hamilton further extends his lead in the drivers’ championship. He had already won other races this season and is showing impeccable performance. If he continues at this pace, he may clinch his eighth world title.
Furthermore, Hamilton’s victory in Monaco was even more special as he equaled the record of wins held by the legendary Ayrton Senna. Senna, who is considered one of the greatest drivers in history, also won six times at the Monaco circuit.
Hamilton did not hide his emotion when equaling this record and made sure to pay tribute to Senna in his post-race interview. He emphasized Senna’s importance to the sport and said it is an honor to be on the same level as him.
The next race of the Formula 1 season will take place next weekend, and Hamilton will certainly be determined to continue his winning streak. Fans are eager to see what the British driver will be capable of in the upcoming races and if he will be able to secure another world title.
