This weekend, the first race of the season in the United States will be in Miami, Florida. Another important matter on the agenda is whether Andretti Global will become the sport’s 11th team.
Last October, the F.I.A. granted a permit for an 11th team to enter Formula 1 and for that team to begin racing as early as 2026. Final approval rests with Formula 1, which Stefano Dominicali, a former Ferrari team principal, leads. However, earlier this year, the group rejected a proposal submitted by Andretti Global because the team would not have much impact on the sport.
Some thought it was a harsh decision, even unfair, because there are three races in the U.S., and the fan base here would likely grow with a thoroughly American team. For clarity, Haas F1 has an American sponsor, but no other American members are on the team other than Gene Haas.
So, what’s the beef? It is believed that one reason is that a few teams think it would be better if Andretti Global bought out a team that seeks to leave the sport–speculation that is being denied by those in the inner circle. Still, Andretti Global pursued the 11th slot, possibly teaming up with General Motors by 2028. It would make sense, too, because G.M.’s cross-town Detroit rival, Ford, is set to supply engines for Red Bull Racing beginning in 2026. General Motors’ Cadillac division is already in sportscar racing, both in the United States and the World Endurance Championship, and it seems logical that the automaker would take the next step by developing an engine for Formula 1 racing.
Adding spice to the matter is the U.S. Congress intervention. Earlier this week, Federal legislators demanded why the “no” decision was made, arguing that two American-based teams would boost the U.S. economy.
So, the stakes are high. Andretti Global doesn’t want to wait another four years to apply again, and expanding the sport’s U.S. fanbase seems like an everybody-wins outcome—a powerful argument for turning no into yes.
