Michael Andretti reveals the time frame for the FIA’s verdict on his team’s F1 entry

FIA President Ben Sulayem supported Andretti’s bid while current teams show limited enthusiasm.

Michael Andretti reveals the time frame for the FIA’s verdict on his team’s F1 entry

Michael Andretti (Image credit: Autosport.com)

With the FIA’s Expression of Interest deadline approaching, all eyes are on Andretti Global, led by ex-Formula One driver Michael Andretti. Earlier attempts to connect with team principals during the 2022 Miami Grand Prix had limited success. Only Zak Brown of McLaren and Alpine’s Otmar Szafnauer offer support. Other teams and Formula One itself suggested Andretti secure an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) partnership for better prospects.

Michael Andretti mentioned they were progressing by adhering to the process and completing requirements. They had finished their tasks, leaving the decision to the FIA and F1. Awaiting news, he noted no fixed timing but expected a verdict in early September for 2025 entry. He stressed the importance of a 2025 start, initially considering 2024 but finding 2025 more viable due to delays.

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“There is not a specific timeline, but we have been told early September [to expect a decision whether to grant entry.] Not only [is coming in in 2025] beneficial, but it is a key factor. At first, [we were targetting] 2024, but as the process dragged on 2025 became more feasible, so that is what we are working towards,” Andretti is quoted by Racingnews.360.

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Also read: Helmut Marko advises Michael Andretti to buy the Alpine F1 team

Andretti’s team project to unveil driver lineup post official developments

Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team (Image credit: Motor Sport Magazine)

Andretti was set to acquire a major stake in Sauber, which runs the Alfa Romeo Formula 1 team. The deal seemed almost certain until it collapsed due to control disputes. Andretti’s proximity to sealing the Sauber agreement is evident, with the American revealing it was just “48 hours” away from being concluded.

Michael Andretti mentioned that they were open to any opportunity but indicated that much of the potential had already been explored. He honestly stated that purchasing another team had largely been exhausted. He affirmed that there would definitely be one American driver and the other would be an experienced driver on the team.

 He further explained that the decision regarding the drivers wouldn’t be spontaneous; rather, it was an integral part of the project. However, the announcement of the drivers would have to wait until all the other official aspects of the project were in place.

“But a lot of it in that respect has been exhausted already quite honestly as far as buying another team. I can tell you for sure that there will be one American driver on the team, and the other will be an experienced one,” the ex-McLaren driver stated.

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