George Russell goes against Toto Wolff, claims Andretti has the ‘quality’ to join F1

George Russell believed that Andretti-Cadillac has the quality to race in F1.

George Russell goes against Toto Wolff, claims Andretti has the ‘quality’ to join F1

George Russell [L], Michael Andretti [C], Toto Wolff [R] (images via IMAGO0

Andretti-Cadillac is one of the most talked about subjects in the F1 world. Michael Andretti’s bid to have his team at the pinnacle of motorsport has passed the FIA’s evaluation to enter F1. However, the American team continues to face backlash from existing teams. George Russell stated that the proposed outfit would add to the championship.

The British driver insisted that the highest category in the world in motorsport needed the best competition. Although, Russell clarified that he would have a rather neutral stance over Andretti’s entry into F1. He said, as reported by Racingnews365, “I think Formula 1’s the pinnacle, and we want to see quality competition so I’m not for, I’m not against.”

YouTube video

However, George Russell was convinced that Michael Andretti’s outfit had what it takes to race in the sport. This goes in direct contradiction to Mercedes boss Toto Wolff. The Austrian billionaire has advocated against Andretti’s entry as an eleventh team on the grid. Russell continued, “But definitely if there were to be an extra team it’s got to be a quality outfit, one that can add to the sport.”

FS Video

Also Read: FIA gives the green light to Andretti Autosport to join Formula 1 as the NEW 11th team

George Russell hopes F1 will make the right decision on Andretti-Cadillac

Despite acknowledging Andretti’s capabilities, Russell emphasized that he had no strong opinion. The British driver highlighted the need for F1 to make the right call that would not hurt the sport in the long run. George Russell believed that the mark must always prioritize quality rather than simply having more teams on the grid.

Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Stefano Domenicali (image via PlanetF1)
Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Stefano Domenicali (image via PlanetF1)

Nevertheless, there is still a long way to go for Michael Andretti before he is given the green light for Andretti-Cadillac. The American outfit must convince Formula One Management about the benefits the team would bring to the sport. Moreover, team bosses such as Toto Wolff and Christian Horner remain skeptical about the added value of an eleventh team.

Certainly, Andretti-Cadillac is getting closer to potentially joining the sport in 2025. Michael Andretti’s vision would drastically impact the sport by adding an American team with the backing of General Motors. Andretti also mentioned his intent to have an American driver in the cockpit. However, it remains to be seen if the Andretti F1 team could become a reality.

In case you missed it: