F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali had long maintained the position that any potential 11th team in Formula 1 needed to demonstrate its overall positive impact on the series to secure a spot. The clear implication was that the American team faced a challenging task in proving itself.
The recent decision by F1 to reject Andretti’s application, at least for the time being, does not come as a surprise, given the three months of deliberation that preceded it. However, what stood out was the detailed response from F1, outlining the issues involved. This thorough explanation seemed to be a preemptive measure to avoid potential legal action, emphasizing the importance of robust arguments.
F1’s statement revealed the existence of written correspondence between Andretti and F1 in October, along with an offer for a face-to-face meeting on December 12, 2023, at FOM’s London HQ, an offer that Andretti did not accept.
Three key factors were highlighted as reasons against approving Andretti’s entry. First, the impending major rules revolution in 2026 would pose a significant challenge for Andretti, as it would have to prepare cars for both 2025 and the new formula simultaneously.
FOM considered this logistically demanding and nearly impossible to deliver strong performances amid such changes.
Second, F1 expressed doubts about Andretti’s understanding of the technical challenges and competitive nature of the series, particularly as a novice entrant building two different cars in its first two years.
Third, Andretti’s reliance on a compulsory power unit supply from a rival manufacturer raised concerns, given the team’s ambition to collaborate with GM in the long term.
While Andretti secured a partnership with GM and its Cadillac brand, F1 pointed out that any move to produce its own power unit would likely occur no earlier than 2028. In the interim, Andretti would need to find a customer partner, and the lapsed pre-contract agreement with Renault added to the challenges.
F1 insisted that Andretti’s proposal lacked competitiveness and highlighted the demand for any new entrant to bring added value to the grid. FOM concluded that Andretti’s primary value could be in being competitive, but F1 doubted the team’s ability to achieve this.
The statement emphasized the potential negative effects of an 11th team on the championship’s prestige, standing, and financial results.
F1 stated unequivocally that the door for Andretti remains firmly shut unless the team can present a package involving a works engine and a more competitive proposition, which would take considerable time.
The focus is now on Andretti and how the team will respond to this verdict, raising questions about the future of its F1 ambitions.