Ex-Ferrari driver Mario Andretti on new teams joining F1: "We'll know in September"

New Formula 1 teams, decision to be made in September
“We’ll reach an agreement in September.” That’s how Formula 1 President Stefano Domenicali had communicated the timeframe within which the Circus and the FIA would find common ground on discussions concerning the new teams that could compete in Formula 1 starting from 2025. And now Stefano Domenicali’s words are also confirmed by Mario Andretti, who has been asked to wait another month before finding out if his team can enter the World Championship.

Mario Andretti’s Words
“From our perspective, we’re just following the procedures. We’ve done everything, and now it’s in their hands,” commented the 1978 world champion to RacingNews365, referring to the FIA and Formula 1. “At this moment, we’re waiting, but we should know something shortly. There isn’t a specific timeline, but we were told early September. Joining Formula 1 in 2025 would be not only advantageous but also a key factor. It’s something that has been strongly proposed, and I think it makes sense. Initially, we aimed for 2024, but as the procedure dragged on, it became clear that 2025 was more feasible. As for the drivers, I can say with certainty that there will be an American driver and another experienced one.”

Response to Helmut Marko
Mario Andretti then responded to Helmut Marko, who had suggested that he should buy Alpine instead of adding two cars to the grid: “We are, of course, open to any opportunity, but regarding the purchase of a team, the alternatives have already been explored.” – the former Ferrari driver pointed out. After unsuccessfully attempting to acquire Sauber in 2021, the Andretti family has “knocked on the doors” of other teams, but they haven’t found anyone willing to sell.

Andretti’s candidacy is undoubtedly the one that has caused the most buzz in recent months. The Americans have taken the initiative, teaming up with General Motors and Cadillac to preemptively counter the controversy over the “added value” their team would bring to F1. A controversy deliberately created by teams to conceal their fear of dividing the revenue pie among 11 rather than 10. Another “powerful” ally of the flying Istrian is undoubtedly FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who wants his entry and that of another team by no later than 2026. Liberty Media is defending the economic interests of the teams and has been in a standoff with the Federation for months. The grid of the future will depend on the agreement between the governing body and the commercial rights holder of Formula 1.

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