P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 snubbing Andretti now would be a terrible look
If Formula 1 were to reject Andretti’s entry now, it would be a terrible image for the championship, regardless of the justification. F1 has made it clear that they want manufacturer teams committed to the 2026 engine regulations or manufacturer-backed projects that are willing to invest in or buy out an existing team. While existing teams demand high fees for new entrants, the FIA is more interested in ensuring that Andretti has enough funding to be a sustainable team. Rejecting an outfit with a strong motorsport background and major car manufacturer support would imply that no new team would ever be good enough to enter. With the expansion of F1’s calendar and the focus on American commercial opportunities, the arguments against Andretti’s entry would be a hard sell to the public. F1 needs a new team with new drivers and the excitement that comes with it, especially given the current state of predictability in the sport. Saying no to an American team would contradict F1’s mission to expand and grow.
Source: The Race
