The American Andretti outfit is hoping to enter Formula 1 from 2025 at the earliest, after receiving approval from the FIA. However, the team’s bid to join the series faces resistance from Formula One Management (FOM) and rival teams, who question the tangible benefits of adding an extra team to the grid. This opposition stems from concerns about the potential commercial impact of sharing prize money with an additional outfit. While the sport is currently experiencing a boom, team principal Guenther Steiner cautions against diluting the existing field, drawing on the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Steiner emphasizes that despite relative stability, Formula 1 teams are not reaping massive profits. The pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities of the sport, with the risk of losing nearly half the grid. To navigate through those difficult times, team owners invested significant funds to keep their teams alive. Steiner contends that such efforts must not be undervalued or forgotten. The current status quo, according to him, serves as a testament to the strength and resilience of the teams that persevered. Therefore, as Formula 1 faces an uncertain future, Steiner argues for the preservation of unity and strength among the existing ten teams.
Steiner stands by his belief that Andretti’s entry should only be approved if there is tangible evidence supporting the potential benefits it would bring to the entire grid. While acknowledging the possibility of fresh sponsor interest, Steiner emphasizes that such potential remains speculative. He insists that if Andretti can demonstrate clear value that the current teams can accept, then their entry would indeed be welcomed. However, Steiner is not alone in his skepticism. He highlights that it is not just Haas, his own team, but the entirety of Formula 1 that questions the necessity of an 11th team. The collective sentiment revolves around the notion that there is currently no convincing argument for the addition of another team and the potential dilution of the sport’s current success.
Steiner underscores the need for FOM, rather than individual teams, to evaluate the bigger picture. This evaluation must focus on whether an 11th team truly adds value to Formula 1. Steiner’s reluctance reflects the broader sentiment within the paddock, which agrees that now is not the right time to consider expanding the grid. Formula 1’s current state of success and stability should not be compromised. Instead, the priority should be maintaining strength and resilience to weather any future uncertainties that may arise.
Andretti’s entry into Formula 1 has sparked debates and concerns among teams and team principals. While the American outfit hopes to join the grid, FOM and rival teams question the tangible benefits and potential commercial impact. The COVID-19 pandemic serves as a reminder of the fragility of the sport, as teams fought to stay alive during difficult times. Therefore, cautiousness and unity are necessary to preserve the current success of Formula 1. The decision ultimately lies with FOM, who must assess the bigger picture and ensure that any further additions to the grid truly enhance the sport.
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