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.
Luken Glover joined the Frontstretch team in 2020 as a contributor, furthering a love for racing that traces back to his earliest memories. Glover inherited his passion for racing from his grandfather, who used to help former NASCAR team owner Junie Donlavey in his Richmond, Va. garage. A 2023 graduate from the University of the Cumberlands, Glover is the author of "The Underdog House," contributes to commentary pieces, and does occasional at-track reporting. Additionally, Glover enjoys working in ministry, coaching basketball, playing sports, and karting.
If Michael Andretti were to field a couple of cars I would definitely be interested in following F1. 🇺🇸