The Andretti household will retain an involvement within the revised plan for a Common Motors Method 1 group, with 1978 world champion Mario Andretti serving as a director on the board.
On Monday F1 announced it has agreed in principle a deal to allow an entry for the GM group to enter grand prix racing in 2026 with its personal group.
This got here as a part of a restructured plan from the unique thought of a Cadillac-backed Andretti entry, which F1 rejected earlier within the yr.
The revamped thought for the venture, which has include authentic group founder Michael Andretti lately stepping again from his involvement, implies that the Andretti title will not be part of the F1 operation.
As a substitute, will probably be a GM/Cadillac group in affiliation with the TWG International firm, which owns and operates Andretti International.
Whereas that would have meant no involvement for the Andretti title, GM has introduced that some ties will stay. And that revolves round Mario Andretti serving as a director, however “not concerned in day-to-day operations”.
Mario Andretti with Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin F1 Group
Photograph by: Andy Hone / Motorsport Pictures
Mario Andretti mentioned on X: “I really feel very fortunate that I have been in a position to stick round for this lengthy and do what I really like for therefore lengthy. And the concept that the Cadillac F1 Group needs me round… I am going to assist the place I can, a non-executive position with the group, not concerned in day-to-day operations (as a result of I do not need a job), however providing recommendation, inspiration, friendship wherever I can. I’m past lucky.”
Talking about his position, he mentioned: “My old flame was Method 1 and now – 70 years later – the F1 paddock continues to be my completely satisfied place.
“I’m completely thrilled with Cadillac, Method 1, Mark Walter, and Dan Towriss. To nonetheless be concerned at this stage of my life — I’ve to pinch myself to verify I’m not dreaming.”
Mario Andretti had spoken out a number of occasions in current months concerning what he felt was an unfair remedy by F1 in rejecting its hopes of an entry.
Whereas Mario’s son Michael, who initially started the venture when he ran Andretti International, is not going to play any half in how issues develop, he says he additionally totally helps what GM is doing.
Posting on X, he mentioned: “The Cadillac F1 Group is made up of a powerful group of those who have labored tirelessly to construct an American works group.
“I’m very happy with the laborious work they’ve put in and congratulate all concerned on this momentous subsequent step. I will likely be cheering for you!”
