The Andretti household will retain an involvement within the revised plan for a Common Motors Components 1 group, with 1978 world champion Mario Andretti serving as a director on the board.
On Monday F1 introduced it has agreed in precept a deal to permit 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 concept of a Cadillac-backed Andretti entry, which F1 rejected earlier within the yr.
The revamped concept for the mission, which has include unique group founder Michael Andretti not too long ago stepping again from his involvement, signifies that the Andretti title will now 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 Workforce
Photograph by: Andy Hone / Motorsport Photos
Mario Andretti mentioned on X: “I really feel very fortunate that I have been capable of stick round for this lengthy and do what I really like for thus lengthy. And the concept that the Cadillac F1 Workforce 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 desire a job), however providing recommendation, inspiration, friendship wherever I can. I’m past lucky.”
Talking about his position, he mentioned: “My old flame was Components 1 and now – 70 years later – the F1 paddock remains to be my blissful place.
“I’m completely thrilled with Cadillac, Components 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 instances in latest months relating to what he felt was an unfair therapy by F1 in rejecting its hopes of an entry.
Whereas Mario’s son Michael, who initially started the mission when he ran Andretti International, is not going to play any half in how issues develop, he says he additionally absolutely helps what GM is doing.
Posting on X, he mentioned: “The Cadillac F1 Workforce is made up of a robust group of people who have labored tirelessly to construct an American works group.
“I’m very happy with the exhausting work they’ve put in and congratulate all concerned on this momentous subsequent step. I shall be cheering for you!”
