$43 billion worth carmaker rumored to enter F1 amidst Andretti-Cadillac tensions 

Despite F1 rejecting Andretti-Cadillac's bid, it seems that other carmakers are still keen on entering Formula 1.

$43 billion worth carmaker rumored to enter F1 amidst Andretti-Cadillac tensions 

Stefano Domenicali (L), Michael Andretti (R) (images via IMAGO)

Andretti-Cadillac has faced a stern rejection over joining the grid as the 11th team. Michael Andretti ‘s team hasn’t given up on the dream yet and have been working on making the sport reconsider. However, Formula 1 is likely to budge in its decision as even FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem advised the acquisition of another team. Amidst this, Korean carmaker Hyundai is eyeing joining the F1 grid soon.

Despite the rejection of Andretti, $43 Billion worth of carmaker Hyundai is keen on joining the F1 grid. The South Korean company is rumored to be entering Formula 1 by buying an existing team on the grid. Notably, Hyundai’s ambitions with the team in F1 match those of FOM’s love for the addition of more Asian involvement.

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Formula 1 and FIA have been thought to be strictly against the addition of an 11th team on the grid. Multiple people have advised Andretti to acquire an existing team much like Audi with Sauber. Hence, the only way to add another entity to the sport might be by acquiring an existing team on the grid. However, Zak Brown had previously pointed out that it’s highly unlikely to witness a ‘for sale’ sign on the present team’s doors.

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Hyundai has already bought former Renault team principal Cyril Abiteboul in 2023

Hyundai’s case looks much stronger than that of Andretti’s in the recent time. The South Korean company had signed former Renault principal Cyril Abiteboul in January 2023. Additionally, Hyundai has had approximately 25 sponsors join the team. All these facts, in addition to the fact that the Asian market hasn’t been tapped into by Formula 1 yet make the case even stronger for Hyundai.

Cyril Abiteboul (via IMAGO)
Cyril Abiteboul (via IMAGO)

Apart from this, Incheon, a city in South Korea has also great interest in expanding the pinnacle of motorsport. Hyundai’s home city could host a grand prix in Formula 1 as early as the 2026 season. However, with the current season running at full capacity of 24 races, the addition of another race would need to pose more benefits.

Time will tell about how Hyundai’s bid fares in the world of motorsports. The team has a great base in Asia and multiple useful resources. The manufacturer wouldn’t face problems if they decided to acquire a team and join the F1 grid. However, it remains to be seen if the rumors turn out to be true in the coming weeks.

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