Mario Andretti, the former 1978 Formula 1 Drivers’ Champion from the United States, has issued a passionate plea to Formula One Management (FOM) regarding the potential F1 team led by his son Michael. Andretti expressed their willingness to comply with any requests from FOM as they strive to secure a place on the 2026 grid. However, their bid was previously rejected by FOM, who believed that the Andretti brand would benefit more from F1 than the other way around. Despite this setback, Andretti’s team is continuing their efforts and has even established a base in Silverstone. They have also embarked on a recruitment drive in the UK, with plans to expand their presence in Formula 3 and Formula 2. Additionally, they are conducting crash tests on F1 nose components and aim to develop a complete prototype chassis by the end of the year. Mario Andretti expressed his disappointment at the suggestion that their bid lacked value, emphasizing the significant investment they are willing to make in the series. He also took offense to the idea of General Motors partnering with another team instead of Andretti. With both parties holding different perspectives, it is crucial for them to reach a mutually beneficial agreement soon. FOM had previously extended an invitation to meet with Andretti, but it went unnoticed as it ended up in their email spam folder.
After revealing its Silverstone location, Andretti held a crucial meeting with FOM, with further discussions scheduled to take place in Miami. Mario Andretti acknowledged the lack of communication between the parties involved, recognizing it as a significant issue. He eagerly anticipates the upcoming discussions during F1’s visit to Florida, hoping to address the missed opportunities and focus on the future. Andretti remains optimistic, as their work is progressing at a rapid pace, evident from their tangible progress in constructing their team’s base in Silverstone.
Andretti firmly believes that if the FOM has any specific requirements for their entry, they should communicate them directly to Andretti, and they will comply. However, Andretti expresses frustration, as the FOM has not provided any clear instructions, offering only vague excuses such as not wanting to cause embarrassment. Andretti emphasizes that they do not want to embarrass themselves either, highlighting General Motors’ enthusiastic commitment to the project. Andretti questions the reasons behind the FOM’s hesitations, emphasizing that they are all professional racers working towards advancing the sport. While Andretti has not personally experienced disrespect face-to-face, he feels it from a distance and believes it is undeserved.