Michael Andretti (USA). 22.10.2022. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 19, United States Grand Prix, Austin, Texas, USA, Qualifying Day. – www.xpbimages.com, EMail: [email protected] © Copyright: Bearne / XPB Images
The FIA has officially given the green light to Andretti Formula Racing to join the Formula 1 grid, subject to reaching a commercial agreement with FOM.
After the FIA formally launched the application process for prospective new F1 teams in February, Andretti Formula Racing inch closer to a prospective arrival on the F1 grid as early as 2025.
In a statement issued by the sport’s governing body on Monday, it was confirmed that of the four final applicants, Andretti was the only prospective team to advance to the final stage of the selection process.
The statement read: “Andretti Formula Racing LLC was the only candidate to meet the stringent criteria that was set by the FIA in all material respects from the four teams which lodged formal applications in Phase 2 of the process.”
Applicants were assessed on their sporting and technical ability, their ability to raise and maintain sufficient funding to compete at a representative level.
The FIA required applicants to outline their sustainability plans to match the sport’s drive to become net-zero by 2030 as well as a demonstration of how they intend to achieve a positive social impact through participation in the series.
“The FIA was very clear in establishing stringent criteria for entry from the outset of the Expressions of Interest procedure,” said FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
“Our objective, after rigorous due diligence during the application phase, was to only approve prospective entries which satisfied the set criteria and illustrated that they would add value to the sport.
(L to R): Michael Andretti (USA) with Mohammed Bin Sulayem (UAE) FIA President on the grid. 08.05.2022. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 5, Miami Grand Prix, Miami, Florida, USA, Race Day. – www.xpbimages.com, EMail: [email protected] © Copyright: Coates / XPB Images
“The FIA is obliged to approve applications that comply with the Expressions of Interests application requirements and we have adhered to that procedure in deciding that Andretti Formula Racing LLC’s application would proceed to the next stage of the application process.
“In taking that decision, the FIA is acting in accordance with EU directives on motor sport participation and development,” he added.
“Andretti Formula Racing LLC was the only entity which fulfils the selection criteria that was set in all material respects. I congratulate Michael Andretti and his team on a thorough submission. I also want to thank all prospective teams for their interest and participation.”
Andretti will now be referred to FOM to enter commercial discussions as part of Phase 3 of the application process.
The FIA President was confident that the interest shown in the sport from a number of prospective teams and manufacturers indicates the strength of F1’s regulation changes set for 2026.
“The Expressions of Interest process builds on the positive acceptance of the FIA’s 2026 F1 Power Unit Regulations among existing OEMs which has also attracted further commitment from Audi, Honda and Ford and interest from Porsche and General Motors,” Ben Sulayem added.
“I would like to thank all of the FIA team members involved in the Expressions of Interest process for their tireless efforts in ensuring a diligent assessment of all of the applications received.”
Keyword: FIA approves Andretti bid to become 11th F1 team