Christian Horner Welcomes ‘Powerful’ Andretti F1 Entry Despite Toto Wolff’s Concerns

The Andretti Family has confirmed Andretti Global’s plans to enter the pinnacle of Motor Sport in 2024. Their attempts to enter Formula One have failed so far. However, with growing interest from around the world, they will hope to convince the FIA this time.

Christian Horner has voiced his support to the Andretti family entering Formula One. Andretti was close in securing the Alfa Romeo F1 team, and most recently showed interest in the Haas F1 team.

Christian Horner is happy to have Andretti on the F1 grid

Mario Andretti confirmed Renault has agreed to provide power units if they join the grid. Earlier, Mario Andretti’s son, Michael, submitted a proposal to F1 over joining the sport in 2024 as the eleventh team. However, the FIA is yet to confirm its decision regarding the matter.

Red Bull boss, Christian Horner believes the adding another team will improve the competition in Formula One. He stated, “It is great that there is the interest for people wanting to get into Formula 1, and the Andretti name is certainly a powerful name in motorsport.”

Horner was also quick to comment on the fact that more interest in entering Formula 1 is better for the sport in the longer run. He also admitted that there must be an agreement with the FIA first, and the process is far from over.

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Alpine’s CEO Laurent Rossi also approved of the idea. He conveyed, “I welcome it if it is creative. Andretti could have that potential because of the U.S. aspect of it but we will see.”

Like Horner, he also thinks that it will enhance the competition in the grid, and Formula One will only get better with more teams.

Toto Wolff Has Concerns

Meanwhile, Mercedes Team Principal, Toto Wolff, is worried about the inclusion of another team. In addition, he feels that every team needs to bring additional value to the grid.

The FIA insisted on $200 Million as a buy-in fee when the Concorde Agreement was signed between the teams. Wolff said, “Every team that is joining needs to add value. It’s not only by paying a $200M entry fee, but it needs to demonstrate in my opinion what it can do for all the other teams and for Formula 1 and the FIA. Only then the sport will grow.”

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However, with a growing American audience and two races scheduled in the United States this season, Andretti believes a new American team will increase the presence of Formula One.

The Andretti family is a big name and their inclusion will certainly improve Formula One’s presence across the world. However, many have voiced their concerns about an additional team.

Is the Andretti Family entering the world of F1 a good move for the sport? Let us know in the comments.