The FIA has approved the application from Michael Andretti and Andretti Global to field a Formula 1 team, it announced Oct. 2.
The FIA said that Andretti meets all required criteria, allowing the team to take one step forward in its pursuit of an F1 team.
Andretti will now have to validate its value to Liberty Media and existing teams as it seeks to expand the F1 grid, a move against which some teams have voiced opposition.
FIA President Ben Sulayem has also expressed support for the team joining the F1 ranks.
“The FIA is obliged to approve applications that comply with the Expressions of Interests application requirements and we have adhered to that procedure in deciding that Andretti Formula Racing LLC’s application would proceed to the next stage of the application process,” Sulayem said.
The FIA reportedly received seven applications, with five going through to the second step and only four completing the entire applicant process. Andretti was determined to be the lone worthy candidate.
Andretti, which would run engines under General Motors-Cadillac, is seeking to field a two-car team in F1.
Entering his fifth year with Frontstretch, Luken Glover is the author of The Underdog House, shedding light on the motivation and performance of NASCAR's dark horse teams as they strive to fight to the top. Additionally, Glover reports for the site at various events, and he contributes in the video editing department.
A 2023 graduate of the University of the Cumberlands, Glover is a middle school math and PE teacher, as well as a basketball coach. He is passionate about serving in his church, playing/coaching a wide variety of sports, and researching motorsports history.