Andretti Autosport is still aiming for a spot on the Formula 1 grid. The American team plans to debut their own car in 2026. Despite previous rejections, former world champion Mario Andretti remains convinced of the opportunities ahead. The team is set to meet with the FOM again soon to discuss their participation.
In early April, Andretti attended the grand opening of a new base in Silverstone. Located just a stone’s throw away from the British GP circuit, the team continues to work towards their dream of participating in Formula 1. The American racing team meets all the requirements for participation, but so far, they have been held back by the FOM. Mario Andretti revealed that the team will meet with the organization again, aiming to be on the starting grid in 2026.
“We have never stopped working,” he said this week to Sports Illustrated. “We already have a car and a wind tunnel. The goal now is to be on the grid in 2026,” said the 84-year-old Andretti. Formula 1 is set for a major rule change that year. If the team joins at a later date, they will undoubtedly be at a disadvantage. “No matter what is written in the press, we work on it every day,” Andretti continued. “Only the FOM still needs to give us permission, but we have an important meeting soon. Hopefully, that will yield something.”
No Value for the Sport
The FOM – the commercial rights holder of the sport – rejected Andretti’s participation for the 2025 season. In late January, the American racing team, which is backed by General Motors, was decisively dismissed. The FIA approved the entry, but according to the rights holder, Andretti’s arrival would have more value for the team than for the sport.
