FIA President Shifts Position on Andretti’s F1 Ambitions, Suggests Buying Existing Team Instead

FIA leader shifts opinion on Andretti's Formula 1 application, suggesting acquisition of an existing team

Head of the FIA, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, currently recommends Andretti to "purchase a different team".

FIA leader Mohammed Ben Sulayem has now recommended that Andretti consider purchasing an existing team instead of attempting to join F1 as the 11th team.

In January, Andretti's attempt to join the racing league with Cadillac as a new, 11th team within the next two years was denied. Formula 1 concluded that adding another team would not inherently bring any additional value. Despite this setback, the possibility of joining the sport in 2028 remains open, by which time their partner, General Motors, is expected to be ready to supply an engine.

The FIA, Formula 1's regulatory authority, greenlit Andretti's participation this past October, and Ben Sulayem had earlier supported the notion of expanding the world championship with additional teams. However, recent statements suggest that the FIA president's opinion may have shifted.

"Ben Sulayem expressed to Reuters during the Monaco Grand Prix his certainty that FOM and Liberty are keen on welcoming more teams, provided they are original equipment manufacturers (OEMs)."

"I would suggest [Andretti] should consider purchasing an existing team instead of joining as the 11th team.

"I believe certain teams could benefit from rejuvenation. Which is preferable? Maintaining 11 teams in total or ensuring we have 10 robust teams?

"I continue to hold the view that increasing the number of teams is necessary, but it's crucial that these are the appropriate teams. It's the quality, not the quantity, that matters."

He further stated, "There are certain teams facing difficulties, not just in terms of their performance but also with their management, without specifying any names."

The key is assembling the correct team to ensure no opportunities are missed when an entity like GM equipped with a Power Unit enters Formula 1.

"Consider the potential. In America, there are three races, supported by an immense number of fans. Yet, what we lack is an official [US] team. It brings me joy to see Ford joining forces with [Red Bull], but think about the possibilities if GM were involved and if we had even more American drivers.”

Ben Sulayem's apparent reversal of stance regarding Andretti might be seen as the FIA's attempt to enhance its relationship with FOM and Liberty Media.

"Harmony is always beneficial, and it's unnecessary to constantly face problems," Ben Sulayem stated. "We both recognize the importance of moving ahead, and achieving this requires greater transparency between us.

"In terms of business, our alliance is with FOM. As partners, it's essential for us to overlook minor details and focus on devising strategies to tackle these challenges."

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