For years, the Andrettis have been striving to secure a spot on the F1 grid.
Former F1 team owner Eddie Jordan believes the current teams on the grid are being “greedy” in the way Andretti are being kept off the Formula 1 grid.
During the Monaco weekend, Christian Horner suggested that the ideal option for expanding the current grid would be for Andretti-Cadillac to acquire an already established team in order to participate in racing. Many team principals have also expressed their disagreement with the idea of expanding the grid.
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In recent days, FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem underwent a change in his stance. Initially, he expressed a desire to expand the grid, but he has now advised Andretti to consider purchasing another team if they are seeking a route onto the grid.
Andretti initially cleared the FIA’s Expressions of Interest process to enlarge the Formula 1 grid, which was partly initiated by Ben Sulayem. However, their bid was ultimately turned down by Formula One Management during the advanced stage of discussions.
Guenther Steiner informed Jordan that Andretti’s bid still holds some possibility, as the option for their potential entry from 2028 is not entirely closed. However, the former team principal with his namesake desires to witness an expansion of the grid irrespective of this situation.
In a conversation with the Formula For Success podcast, Jordan expressed his firm stance, stating, “I have not been sitting on the fence on this matter. I strongly believe that Andretti deserves a place in Formula 1.”
“There is a provision in the Concorde Agreement for 12 teams. I find it difficult to comprehend why the 10 teams are so focused on safeguarding their income, exhibiting greed. Although, I must admit that I might have acted similarly in their position.”
Podcast guest and former Haas team principal Steiner interrupted and stated, “Eddie, you wouldn’t have been the same. You would have generously given away your money!”
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However, when Steiner was asked about the possibility of including Andretti in the grid alongside Cadillac, he explained why that is not currently happening by presenting a business argument.
He further concluded that the possibility of their inclusion is not entirely ruled out, mentioning that the sport is open to considering their entry for the 2028 season, particularly when the General Motors power unit by Cadillac is expected to be fully prepared.
He mentioned, “You are well aware of the 11 teams and their position in the sport, having experienced the challenges alongside them.”
“We have all experienced those challenging times when it was a struggle to ensure the participation of 10 teams on the grid due to financial constraints. In my perspective, I believe that the Formula One Management (FOM) is simply safeguarding the welfare of the current 10 teams.”
Ultimately, if there is a logical justification for adding an 11th team in terms of business, it should be considered. My intention is not specifically about Andretti, but rather for anyone interested. It is not a personal matter, but rather a requirement that the existing teams are ensured equal or better treatment.
The addition of an 11th team entails increased workload and challenges, but FOM is currently taking excellent care of the teams and the sport due to their vested interest.
“They invested enormous sums of money in the sport to ensure its success, so I believe they are proud of the way we have conducted business over the past five years and wish to maintain that trajectory.”
Furthermore, I believe that F1 has not completely rejected Andretti. They have expressed that when GM is prepared in 2028, they are welcome to return. The opportunity has not been completely denied; they have simply left it open, without securing it. Therefore, I believe it is important to exercise patience in such situations.
When I sought out an investor, it took me a total of three years to finally find someone.
I displayed patience throughout the process. It’s as if you persist, continue to work hard, lobby, and never give up. By consistently striving and giving your best effort, you eventually reach your goal. Perhaps, that is exactly what they need to do at this moment.
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