In a significant development for Formula 1, the FIA has given the nod to Andretti Formula Racing LLC to enter the prestigious world of Formula 1. This crucial decision follows an in-depth evaluation process that scrutinized various aspects of their application, including sporting, technical, financial, sustainability, and societal impact.
Out of four teams that reached Phase 2 of the application process, Andretti emerged as the standout candidate. They were the only ones to meet the FIA’s stringent criteria comprehensively. The journey to this point began with a call for Expressions of Interest in February, generating significant interest and culminating in the selection of these four finalists.
In response to the FIA’s decision, Formula 1 issued the following statement: “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.”
Photo credit: Penske Entertainment | Chris Owens
The evaluation process undertaken by the FIA was rigorous. It encompassed assessing the sporting and technical capabilities of the teams, their financial stability to compete at a high level, and the collective experience and human resources at their disposal. Sustainability management, in line with the FIA’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2030, was also a vital factor. Each prospective team had to outline their plans for making a positive societal impact through participation in the sport.
Now that the American team has secured the FIA’s approval, their application proceeds to the next phase, which involves commercial discussions with Formula One Management (FOM). This marks a significant milestone on their journey into the world of Formula 1.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized the importance of adhering to the established criteria and regulations, stating, “The FIA was very clear in establishing stringent criteria for entry from the outset of the Expressions of Interest procedure.” He added that the objective was to approve entries that satisfied these criteria and added value to the sport.
Mr. Sulayem also acknowledged Andretti Formula Racing LLC for their comprehensive submission and expressed gratitude to all prospective teams for their interest and participation.
“Andretti Formula Racing LLC was the only entity which fulfils the selection criteria that was set in all material respects. I congratulate Michael Andretti and his team on a thorough submission. I also want to thank all prospective teams for their interest and participation.”
This decision comes on the heels of the successful introduction of the 2026 F1 Power Unit Regulations by the FIA, which attracted further commitment from existing OEMs, Sulayem explained. “The Expressions of Interest process builds on the positive acceptance of the FIA’s 2026 F1 Power Unit Regulations among existing OEMs which has also attracted further commitment from Audi, Honda and Ford and interest from Porsche and General Motors.”
“I would like to thank all of the FIA team members involved in the Expressions of Interest process for their tireless efforts in ensuring a diligent assessment of all of the applications received,” he concluded.
F1 responded to the news with a short statement: “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.”
