Zak Brown supports Formula 1’s decision to reject the Andretti-Cadillac proposal, dismissing claims that the sport is “anti-American.” The American constructor remains determined to enter the grid as an independent team, despite suggestions to buy an existing team. McLaren CEO Zak Brown provided his perspective on the recent developments surrounding the Andretti case.
Previously, the United States Congress raised concerns about Formula 1, accusing the sport of being “anti-American” for rejecting the Andretti proposal. However, Brown, who had previously suggested buying an existing team, disagreed with this view. He emphasized that there is no “anti-American” culture at the pinnacle of motorsport and highlighted the global nature of the sport, with companies like Ford and Honda involved.
Furthermore, Brown stated that he had never encountered any favoritism or negativity towards a specific region throughout his career. He believed the Congress’s claims of national bias in the sport were unfounded. American presence in Formula 1 is currently strong, with three races taking place on the subcontinent.
Andretti Cadillac is not the only American entity in Formula 1. The Haas F1 team and the commercial rights holder of F1, Liberty Media, are also American. Brown emphasized that the sport’s American connections, including Liberty Media, debunked claims of national bias.
Although sympathetic to Andretti’s rejection, Brown made it clear that this does not mean the sport is “anti-American.” He considered the allegation unfortunate and stressed that the issue was between Andretti and Formula 1, not a reflection of the entire country.
Andretti continues to fight for his proposal to be reconsidered, having already established his installation in Silverstone and reached a similar number of employees as the Haas F1 team. If the team continues to receive support, Formula 1 may revisit the rejected proposal.
