F1 News: Otmar Szafnauer Expresses Desire to Join Andretti Just Hours After Former Renault Engineer Made Bold Poaching Claims

Michael Andretti is taking the idea of launching his own F1 team with full force. Currently, he has already recruited Nick Chester and is finding many prospects from teams like Red Bull, Ferrari, McLaren and Mercedes. Although it is not confirmed when the new team will join the sport, the idea of this team spiked the interest of Otmar Szafnauer.

After the 2023 season, Szafnauer had decided to split ways with Alpine as the team manager amid a restructuring process. Ever since then, he has become the center of attention, as several teams believe he would fit perfectly considering his knowledge of the spot. But recently, the idea of the Andretti team has piqued the Romanian-American’s interest.

Otmar expresses his desire to join Andretti

Otmar Szafnauer expressed interest in joining Michael Andretti’s Formula 1 project while talking to Motor Sport magazine, as quoted by Soy MotorSport. Szafnauer said, “I had some conversations with Michael Andretti. He even called me before going to Alpine and I told him that I would love to help you.” While he shared his excitement to help Andretti, he had one standard condition.

“First they have to get the registration for Formula 1, because without a registration, how could I help you?” He stated, explaining the situation. The 59-year-old continued, “If they are accepted, then I will be able to talk about how to get involved and get them going.” From this, it is clear that Otmar Szafnauer is looking forward to Andretti registering the team for F1 so he can be a part of the team.

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Andretti’s team is actively working on the Formula 1 project, having received FIA approval but awaiting confirmation from FOM (Formula One Management). Michael Andretti continues his efforts to secure a spot as the eleventh team in Formula 1, despite a lack of recent public movements. The team has actively worked towards its Formula 1 goal, even running a car in the wind tunnel, indicating a serious commitment to competitiveness.

What will Otmar be doing during the 2024 season?

Otmar Szafnauer was not pleased with his immediate departure from Alpine and believes he had the tools to lead the team forward. Currently, Otmar Szafnauer is in his “gardening” period, a specific time during which one cannot join a new team after leaving another.

Despite the hiatus, Szafnauer has a strong desire to return to the sport, as he believes he still has the necessary skills to lead a competitive team. He estimated having another five to seven years in the sport and is eagerly waiting to return after completing the gardening period.

Otmar Szafnauer is optimistic about his ability to form a competitive team in Formula 1 and aims to utilize his skills and experience in the sport. He mentions his desire to return to the sport soon, acknowledging some impatience but indicating a strong motivation to contribute to Formula 1’s success.

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That being said, do you think Andretti will be able to register his own F1 team before 2026? Let us know what you think in the comments below.