Christian Horner claims Andretti should follow Audi’s route to F1 to ‘protect current franchise model’

Andretti-Cadillac might be forced to buy out an existing team to enter Formula 1.

Christian Horner claims Andretti should follow Audi’s route to F1 to ‘protect current franchise model’

Christian Horner [L] Michael Andretti [R] (Via IMAGO)

Andretti-Cadillac‘s bid to enter the Formula 1 grid as the 11th team had been rejected long back by F1. However, the support for the American constructor never stopped as the team continued to try to change F1’s decision. Even the US Congress intervened in the matter by lodging multiple questions to the authorities regarding the rejection. Amidst this, Christian Horner has suggested a different route for Andretti.

Andretti Cadillac has been suggested multiple times to acquire an existing team on the grid. Christian Horner recalled that Formula 1 was ready to reconsider the rejected bid if Andretti was ready to build their own engine by 2028. Additionally, the Red Bull boss pointed out Audi’s acquisition of Sauber and suggested a similar route to Andretti to join the grid.

Formula 1 has said in 2028, if they were to come with their own engine, they would obviously, review it, but in addition to that, I think that if Andretti were to want to come, a little like Audi acquired Sauber.
Christian Horner said, as reported by racingnews365.com.
YouTube video

However, if Formula 1 wanted to preserve its current franchise and stability, Andretti would have to reconsider. According to Horner, the best method to then join the grid would be to acquire one of the existing teams. Apart from this, the rejection wasn’t based on American branding at all. But, as for the business model of Formula 1, such a method was better for Andretti.

FS Video
I think to protect the current franchise and stability that we have in the sport, then obviously their best route to goal is to acquire one of the existing teams. I think that this isn't about anything to do with Andretti being American or anything like that. I think it's purely down to the business model that is Formula 1. 
Christian Horner noted.

Christian Horner claims Audi ‘shows the right path’ to join Formula 1 grid

Audi is all set to join the Formula 1 grid with the regulation changes of 2026 and acquiring Sauber. Hence, Horner iterated that Audi showcased the right path to join the grid. However, Cadillac’s partnership with Andretti further made the team’s case even more stronger. Regardless, Formula 1 is unlikely to budge on their final call to decline the addition of the 11th team.

I think that Audi shows the right path to come to Formula 1, Of course, Cadillac is a big player and it qualifies this project as a potentially good project, but there is a way that is to buy into an existing team. 
Christian Horner added.
Christian Horner
Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner (via IMAGO)

Additionally, the 50-year-old mentioned that Formula 1 had laid out a clear path for any team’s arrival. Hence, Andretti was made aware of the ways they could potentially join the grid anytime soon. However, if Andretti continues to be adamant about their conditions, they could face a rude awakening regarding the team being added to the grid.

The process put in place by Formula 1 is a clear one, it is a very robust project. So I think that [Andretti] knows which could be the way [to enter F1].
Christian Horner concluded.

Despite the constant rejection that Andretti has been facing, the team hasn’t backed down. The team recently built their own factory in Silverstone for chassis development. Additionally, the American constructor reached a similar employee count to the Haas F1 team. Hence, things are looking positive for the All-American squad regarding their chances to join the grid.

In case you missed it: