Is it possible for Andretti-GM to secure a place on the Formula 1 grid?
General Motors has the support of fellow American automotive giant Ford, which wants to see the Andretti-GM union join them in Formula 1.
Andretti is determined to make their mark on the Formula 1 grid, despite facing obstacles. They are receiving support from GM, who intends to become a manufacturer of Formula 1 power units. However, their plans were hindered when Formula One Management rejected their bid to become the 11th team.
Ford want Andretti-GM in Formula 1
The series is already set to gain an American automotive powerhouse, as Ford will link-up with the newly-established Red Bull Powertrains for the new F1 2026 power units, but they would also like to see Andretti and GM in the paddock.
In conversation with the Associated Press, Ford Performance global director Mark Rushbrook spoke in support of Andretti-GM and their push to join the F1 grid, while teasing that the GM power unit would not have to be Andretti-exclusive.
Rushbrook expressed his enthusiasm for General Motors joining the sport, stating, “We participate in racing to go head-to-head with other manufacturers, and with the current presence of numerous manufacturers in Formula 1, it would be wonderful to have General Motors on board.”
They possess the capability to enter the market as a power unit manufacturer without any affiliation to a particular team, allowing them to potentially collaborate with any of the current 10 teams.
We wholeheartedly embrace them, without a doubt. And the same goes for Andretti. We definitely have no animosity towards Andretti.
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Andretti’s situation worsened recently as FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who had previously supported the idea of expanding the F1 grid, changed his stance. He now proposes that Andretti should consider purchasing an already established team. Additionally, Sulayem suggests that the current $200 million anti-dilution entry fee should be increased to $600 million.
Nevertheless, Andretti is determined to continue their preparations for joining the F1 grid. Their efforts include establishing a new base in Silverstone and enlisting the expertise of former F1 chief technical officer Pat Symonds. Michael Andretti confidently asserts that their partnership with GM will result in a team that is as formidable in scale as Ferrari and Mercedes.
Asked by Speed City Broadcasting whether GM are still fully behind and excited for this F1 project with Andretti, Michael replied: “Very. Very committed, very excited.
Until we demonstrate the effort invested by both parties, people will fail to comprehend.
“This is going to be rival with the Ferraris and the Mercedes, you know, the effort that’s being put in with such a great company like GM.”
Andretti-GM has set their sights on joining the F1 grid in 2026.
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