F1 News: FIA "Determining Next Steps" Following Formula One's Andretti Rejection

The FIA has released a statement following the rejection of Andretti Cadillac's Formula One entry bid.

The Formula 1 community was stirred when Formula One Management (FOM) announced its decision to reject Andretti's bid to join the grid in 2025, a decision that has not gone unnoticed by the FIA. FOM's concerns about the potential team's competitiveness and its overall contribution to the series have cast a shadow over Andretti's immediate F1 aspirations, though the door remains ajar for a possible 2028 entry with Cadillac's involvement.

Key Takeaways:

• FOM's Verdict: On Wednesday, FOM concluded that the Andretti initiative for a 2025 slot in the F1 championship did not meet the necessary criteria, highlighting issues such as competitiveness, the lack of a dedicated engine supplier, and the proposed team's overall value to the series. Yet, the possibility of a 2028 entry was not completely dismissed, pending a successful engine deal with Cadillac.
• FIA's Support and Andretti's Determination: Andretti's bid had previously gained the FIA's approval, an essential step after their persistent attempts to penetrate F1, including unsuccessful efforts to acquire Sauber and partnering with Cadillac. The FIA's statement reflects this journey: “The FIA notes the announcement from Formula One Management in relation to the FIA Formula One World Championship teams’ Expressions of Interest process.”
• Controversy Over F1 Expansion: The debate over expanding the F1 grid to include an eleventh team like Andretti has been polarising. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem's support contrasts with the concerns of many within the F1 paddock, who argue that such an expansion could dilute the financial rewards among the teams.

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FOM's comprehensive evaluation led to the conclusion that Andretti's foray into the 2025 season would not meet the high standards set for competitiveness, technical partnership in terms of a works engine supply, and the overarching value proposition to the Formula 1 World Championship. Despite this, FOM has left the possibility open for reconsideration in 2028, should Andretti secure a solid engine deal with Cadillac, hinting at a future where the American outfit could still find its place on the F1 grid.

The FIA, having previously green-lit Andretti's candidacy, took note of FOM's announcement with interest. The governing body's statement reflects a careful observation of the unfolding situation: 

"The FIA notes the announcement from Formula One Management in relation to the FIA Formula One World Championship teams' Expressions of Interest process.

"We are engaging in dialogue to determine next steps."

FIA STATEMENT:
The FIA notes the announcement from Formula One Management in relation to the FIA Formula One World Championship teams' Expressions of Interest process. We are engaging in dialogue to determine next steps. pic.twitter.com/fT42yh3pEN

— FIA (@fia) February 1, 2024

Andretti's pursuit of a Formula 1 slot has been a testament to their determination, marked by significant efforts to integrate into the pinnacle of motorsport, including failed bids to acquire existing teams and the strategic partnership with Cadillac. Despite the setback from FOM and a mixed reception from the F1 community, the FIA, led by President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, has been supportive of the idea of expanding the grid, suggesting a belief in the potential benefits of more teams and fewer races for the sport.

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