P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Andretti has signed Formula 1’s now-former chief technical officer Pat Symonds as part of its ongoing bid to get onto the F1 grid
Andretti has signed Pat Symonds, Formula 1’s former chief technical officer, as part of their efforts to join the F1 grid. Symonds, a seasoned professional with experience at Benetton, Renault, and Williams, will be Andretti’s executive engineering consultant after completing his gardening leave. Despite F1 rejecting Andretti’s bid in January due to concerns about competitiveness and cost, the team remains determined. Andretti, in partnership with General Motors’ Cadillac brand, plans to enter F1 as a customer in 2026 before switching to bespoke Cadillac power units in 2028. The team has also taken their case to the United States Congress, with senators now joining the effort to address the issue with antitrust authorities. It will be interesting to see how Andretti’s ambitious plans and lobbying efforts unfold in the coming months.
