P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Ben Sulayem escalates pressure on F1 to let Andretti in
Now that the Andretti Formula 1 team has received the official approval of the FIA, many wondered if the FIA and its president Mohammed Ben Sulayem would step back from the controversial issue of new teams in F1 and let the process run its course. However, it was unlikely, given the tensions between the FIA and F1 regarding this matter, as well as the strong support from fans for Andretti’s inclusion in an expanded grid. In an interview with Reuters during the Qatar Grand Prix weekend, Ben Sulayem took the opportunity to voice his support for Andretti and criticize F1 and the existing teams for potentially saying no to a team already approved by the FIA. He even mentioned his dream of having an American-based team supported by a car manufacturer and engine supplier, highlighting the importance of attracting OEMs into F1. Suggestions that Andretti should buy an existing team were dismissed by Ben Sulayem, emphasizing that it was not the FIA’s job to force such transactions. He also addressed concerns about track size and facilities, pointing out that if there was space for an additional team for the Brad Pitt/Apple F1 movie, then there should be space for more teams in reality. Furthermore, Ben Sulayem expressed his belief that F1 should prioritize having more teams and fewer races. Overall, this situation has become a battleground for the tensions between the FIA and F1 in terms of who truly holds power in the championship. While the FIA does not have the power to force F1 to approve Andretti, comments from Ben Sulayem serve to highlight his position and beliefs.
Source: The Race
