Rejected New Zealand-based manufacturer confirms FIA has accepted Michael Andretti’s F1 bid
Andretti-Cadillac's bid stands as the only option F1 could see a new team in 2025.
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Michael Andretti. (Via IMAGO)
New Zealand’s Rodin Cars faced a recent setback as their 2025 F1 entry bid was rejected by the FIA. Despite this, their plans revealed ambitious visions, including talks with Ferrari and a commitment to feature a female driver. Since every other team in contention has been ruled out, Michael Andretti‘s bid is the only egg in the basket for FIA.
The New Zealand-based squad aimed for a spot on the Formula One grid in 2025. Despite an unsuccessful bid, their ambitious plans included constructing F1 cars in their New Zealand factory. They explored a potential collaboration with Ferrari and committed to reserving a seat for a female driver.
Now with three of the four teams’ bids being denied by FOM, Andretti-Cadillac’s bid stands as the only option F1 could see a new team in 2025. Speaking to Motorsports.com about it, Rodin extended best wishes to them, stating, “We appreciate the opportunity to have participated in the FIA process and extend our best wishes to Andretti for their successful bid.”
Rodin highlighted its distinctive driver pathway to that of Andretti’s, stating, “While Andretti has a long history of successful participation in U.S. racing, our program offers a direct ladder to an F1 drive by competing in UK and European championships.” Rodin’s commitment carves a distinct path, aiding talent in motorsport’s summit.
Rodin Cars aimed to improve diversity in F1 by including a seat for a female driver
Collaborating with General Motors, Andretti Global aims to enter under the Cadillac brand, marking a potential alliance between two American powerhouses. Despite previous skepticism and accusations of greed from F1 teams, Andretti faces the challenge of winning approval from F1 and the FIA. This bid tests F1’s willingness to deviate from its current franchise-centric structure.
Rodin Cars, the New Zealand contender, conveyed their perspective, emphasizing, “We wish to emphasize that our objective here is not to criticize the FIA or seek a reconsideration of its decision. We fully respect and accept the outcome.” Their primary aim, they noted, was to share information in the public interest for the F1 community, focusing on transparency rather than contesting the rejection.
In line with their commitment, they revealed, “We committed to reserving one seat for a female driver.” The dedication extended to testing promising talents like Liam Lawson, Jamie Chadwick, and Louis Sharp in New Zealand. Jamie’s exceptional performance left a strong impression, and, if available, Rodin affirmed, “We would have no hesitation in putting her in a seat.”
Despite the F1 setback, Rodin Cars stands resolute. Their dedication to pushing the limits in motorsport remains unwavering as they persist in the relentless pursuit of excellence in the dynamic world of racing.
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Rohit Bhaskar
(727 Articles Published)