For many fans, the sport of Formula 1 has been stagnant for a while. For example, ever since 2010, only Mercedes and Red Bull drivers have won the driver’s championship. What’s more, for the past 13 years, only two teams have won the constructors’ championships. That’s right the Silver Arrows and the Bulls have run away with all the accolades. Naturally, it’s time that an outsider challenged the eternal kings to snatch away their thrones.

That being said, for the purists this sport is all about tech and competition. However, for the stakeholders, cash is king. Hence, as the sport entertains the thought of having an 11th team on the grid, the issues of diversity and equality have been given the backseat as the sport looks to tap further into the bountiful market we know as the United States of America.

Lewis Hamilton snubbed as Andretti gets the nod

Hamilton has been an active advocate for more diversity and equality in our sport. The focal point of his efforts culminate with his wish to have a race on the African continent. However, as the 7x champion’s dreams were in touching distance, F1 decided to snub their greatest driver for the likes of Andretti Autosport.

Andretti is desperate to become the 11th team on the grid and they’ve made their intentions known. And as the team comes closer to fruition, it is at the cost of Hamilton. Reports suggest, “The FIA has rejected the proposals of Hitech, Rodin Carlin and LKYSUNZ, an Asian team financed with 1 billion ($1,000,000,000) from an American fund. Regarding LKYSUNZ’s project, it was planned to have their headquarters in Asia and Africa, and to provide opportunities for drivers from both continents to get an opportunity to drive in Formula 1.”

As things stand, Hamilton’s battle against the ‘evil’ of Andretti keeps pushing on.

Read More: Suzuka Turns Into a Battleground With Charles Leclerc Aiming to Hunt Down Lewis Hamilton

“Why become a militant?” – Mario Andretti slams Hamilton for his push for equality

Hamilton will be against the inclusion of the Andretti name into the sport for more than one reason. In 2020, the American legend called the 7x champion a “militant” whilst referring to the Brit’s relentless pursuit for equality and diversity in the sport of F1.

Hamilton brutally responded to those comments by saying, “This is disappointing but unfortunately a reality that some of the older generation who still have a voice today cannot get out of their own way and acknowledge there is a problem. Again, this is plain ignorance but that will not stop me from continuing to push for change.”

Would you be open to the prospect of Andretti Autosport becoming the 11th team on the F1 grid?