Headed by Michael Andretti, son of 1978 F1 champion Mario, the Andretti Formula Racing team has officially had its application for entry into Formula 1 approved by the FIA. Photo André Ferreira / DPPI (Photo by André Ferreira / Andr Ferreira / DPPI via AFP)
The FIA on Monday said it had given Andretti Formula Racing the green light to become Formula One‘s 11th team after putting forward its application for the third and final selection phase.
It was the only one of four applicants to pass the FIA’s review process, but its place on the grid remains subject to it striking a commercial agreement with F1 rights holder Liberty Media.
“We note the FIA’s conclusions in relation to the first and second phases of their process and will now conduct our own assessment of the merits of the remaining application,” said F1 in a statement.
Motorsport’s governing body the FIA in January opened up a process for prospective new entrants to join the championship starting in 2025 or 2026.
ALSO READ: FLOYD ON F1: Another shot in the arm for potential new teams
Most of the existing teams have been against expansion, with new year’s calendar set to feature a record 24 races.
The Andretti bid is being headed by Michael Andretti, a former F1 driver and son of Mario Andretti, F1 world champion in 1978.
Andretti Global revved up its bid to join F1 earlier this year when it announced a partnership with General Motors to provide Cadillac engines for the proposed team.
NOW READ: FLOYD ON F1: No welcome mat for new teams
Download our app and read this and other great stories on the move. Available for Android and iOS.