The American Andretti outfit has recently received approval from the FIA to join Formula 1 starting from 2025 at the earliest. However, securing a commercial deal with Formula One Management (FOM) is crucial for their entry into the series. Despite obtaining the necessary approval, there is no guarantee that FOM will agree to Andretti’s bid. One of the main concerns raised by FOM is whether the addition of an extra team to the grid would bring any tangible benefits to grand prix racing. Moreover, existing teams are apprehensive about having to share prize money with an additional outfit, fearing the potential negative commercial impact.
Guenther Steiner, the Team Principal of Haas F1 Team, urges caution when considering the financial implications of introducing a new team. While the current period may be a boom time for Formula 1, it is essential to learn from the lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic. Steiner emphasizes the suddenness with which the pandemic endangered the existence of almost half of the grid, leading to the risk of losing multiple teams. The crisis forced teams to struggle to survive, with many team owners injecting funds to keep the sport alive. This collective effort played a significant role in shaping Formula 1 into what it is today. Steiner stresses the need for value preservation and cautious financial decision-making.
Steiner echoes the concerns of several teams regarding the dilution of Formula 1’s current success. With the sport currently thriving, many question the necessity of adding another team. Steiner points out that the future is uncertain, and it is crucial to maintain a strong grid to withstand any unforeseen challenges. Looking back to the difficulties faced in 2020, when the survival of Formula 1 itself was at stake, Steiner emphasizes the importance of maintaining the strength of the 10 existing teams. Weakening the sport by adding a new team now could potentially undermine its resilience in the face of future crises.
Steiner holds firm in his belief that Andretti’s entry should only be approved if there is tangible evidence of its benefit to the entire grid. While the potential for fresh sponsors brought in by Andretti is acknowledged, Steiner emphasizes the need for more than speculative possibilities. If Andretti can demonstrate that their entry will bring something of significant value that is accepted by the existing teams, Steiner is open to their inclusion.
Steiner asserts that the final decision rests with FOM, as they possess a holistic view of the sport. The opposition to Andretti’s entry is not limited to Haas but is shared by several stakeholders in Formula 1. The general sentiment within the paddock is that an 11th team is not currently deemed necessary, and Formula 1 as a whole is unconvinced about the added value it would bring. Steiner reinforces the importance of considering the bigger picture and the collective opinion of Formula 1 when evaluating the entry of any new team.
The potential entry of Andretti into the highly competitive world of Formula 1 has sparked considerable controversy. While their approval from the FIA signifies a significant milestone, securing a commercial deal with FOM remains uncertain. The reluctance of FOM and existing teams to dilute the sport’s success and share prize money with an additional outfit reflects the cautious approach needed in the ever-changing landscape of Formula 1. As the future of the sport is inherently unpredictable, preserving the strength and stability of the current grid is paramount. Only if Andretti can demonstrate a clear and tangible benefit to the entire Formula 1 community should their entry be approved. Ultimately, the decision lies in the hands of FOM, who must consider the best interests of the sport and its stakeholders.
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