The Andretti household will retain an involvement within the revised plan for a Normal Motors System 1 staff, 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 staff.
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 challenge, which has include unique staff founder Michael Andretti lately stepping again from his involvement, implies that the Andretti identify will now not be part of the F1 operation.
As an alternative, will probably be a GM/Cadillac staff in affiliation with the TWG World firm, which owns and operates Andretti World.
Whereas that would have meant no involvement for the Andretti identify, 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 Crew
Picture by: Andy Hone / Motorsport Photographs
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 like for thus lengthy. And the concept the Cadillac F1 Crew desires me round… I will assist the place I can, a non-executive position with the staff, not concerned in day-to-day operations (as a result of I do not need a job), however providing recommendation, inspiration, friendship anyplace I can. I’m past lucky.”
Talking about his position, he mentioned: “My old flame was System 1 and now – 70 years later – the F1 paddock remains to be my completely happy place.
“I’m completely thrilled with Cadillac, System 1, Mark Walter, and Dan Towriss. To nonetheless be concerned at this stage of my life — I’ve to pinch myself to ensure I’m not dreaming.”
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Mario Andretti had spoken out a number of instances in current 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 challenge when he ran Andretti World, won’t 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 Crew is made up of a robust group of those that have labored tirelessly to construct an American works staff.
“I’m very pleased with the laborious work they’ve put in and congratulate all concerned on this momentous subsequent step. I will likely be cheering for you!”