Wolf seems to hint that 10 teams are enough for Formula 1; more teams would just dilute the prize fund.
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Mercedes Formula 1 team principal Toto Wolff is not exactly holding the door open to Formula 1 to budding new applicant Michael Andretti.
Former McLaren driver Andretti’s legendary father Mari—the 1978 Formula 1 champion—revealed this past week that his son has not given up on F1 after Michael’s Alfa Romeo buyout bid failed last year. Mario said that Michael has returned with a new plan to compete with his own team in F1 and has gone so far as submitting paperwork with designs on bringing a new team to Formula 1 in 2024.
The news has not exactly been well received in all F1 circles.
Governing body FIA immediately downplayed Andretti Global’s bid hopes by insisting it is “not currently in a position to consider” allowing an 11th team to race.
“The FIA is not currently in a position to consider or comment on any expressions of interest or applications received from potential new entrant teams in respect to the FIA Formula 1 world championship,” an FIA spokesman said.
Mercedes boss Wolff seems to agree that “10 teams are enough” for Formula 1.”More than that only dilutes the income,” Wolff was quoted by European media outlet Auto Motor und Sport.Indeed, a source told the Indianapolis Star newspaper: “I can imagine, if you’re one of the existing teams, you’re not very excited about adding and diluting the pot.”It is believed Andretti would therefore have to pay a $200 million “anti-dilution” fee, which Mario insists is part of “all the prerequisites” the project has considered. Michael would base the team and build cars in Indianapolis.
Wolff continued: “What team would deserve to take part in the top category of motorsport? I think if a manufacturer were to come in, you’d certainly have to talk about it. But no credible candidate has knocked on the door yet.”
Keyword: Mercedes' Toto Wolff Not Exactly Welcoming Michael Andretti's F1 Effort