GM announces Cadillac Formula 1 Team’s launch

Becoming formula One’s first new team in a decade…

 

Thru the Lost Wages’ Grand Prix weekend, I found myself marveling over how everyone had apparently been sent a memo by Liberty Media. As it was funny Ha-Ha! Hearing how far of a full 180-degrees U-turn Der Crying Wolff had made over the possible inclusion of an eleventh team on the Formula 1 grid. With toto almost infusing glee in His monoslavic Austrian “Terminator” accent about how GRRR-REAT! It would be having some brand like Cadillac on the F1 Grid…

 

And then Theodore, not Lenny! Kravitz commended Kroftie’, aka David Kroft on His big scoop of getting Mr. Zakery Brown to say that an announcement was imminent prior to the race. For which I cannot remember what session it was?

 

Although as Kroftie’ pointed out, Zak was one of the few who’d supported Michael Andretti’s initial attempt to join the grid. With Brown and then Alpine’s team principal being the only two willing to sign Mikey A’s Hall pass in His hastily bought Miami dolphins notebook…

 

Thus the announcement was made Monday, November 25th about how General Motors had been finally given the “Green light” to become Formula One’s eleventh team beginning in 2026. As this was purposely done to supposedly not overshadow the Las Vegas Grand Prix itself.

 

And I really don’t care how Y’all want to spin or frame it, but you cannot help but say that Michael Andretti was simply squeezed out!

 

The part I don’t understand, having now read it twice from two different sources. The latter being Nathan Browne of the Indianapolis Star. Was that Greg Maffei, the departing CEO of Liberty Media had vowed that as long as He was in charge, He’d never let Michael Andretti onto the F1 Grid!

 

CoInky-dense that Maffei is leaving Liberty Media when His contract expires at year’s end? Then becoming a consultant during the transition to a new CEO…

 

While rumours were apparently rampant prior to the Las Vegas Grand Prix that Formula 1 CEO Stefano Dominicali would be leaving to become MotoGP’s new CEO, since Liberty Media is finalizing its 86% purchase agreement of MotoGP. And Dominicali has been another starch opponent to the Andretti Global Cadillac F1 deal.

 

As what’s that ‘Ol Judas Priest song about Some Heads are gonna roll…

 

Yet magically, after Mikey A’ decided to leave His namesake’s empire for more “Family-time”. With Dan Towriss becoming the new public face of Andretti Global. And Michael Andretti effectively being squeezed out of His own operation, Tuh duh!

 

TWG Global, the controlling “vehicle” of Andretti Global’s IndyCar franchise, Err charter organization. Wayne Taylor Racing’s IMSA GTP Cadillac team and Spire Motorsports Chevrolet NASCAR team, along with General Motors have now been granted admission onto the Formula 1 grid for the 2026 season.

 

Along with Mario Andretti being named a Director of the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, which hopes to secure customer Ferrari Power Units for 2026-2027, before GM begins producing its own PU’s.

 

Whilst it seems counterproductive to speculate upon who its two drivers will be. Other than obviously Colton Herta’s got to be a shoe-in, provided He’s got the necessary points to acquire the mandatory FIA Super license.

 

Couldn’t find out what TWG stands for? Other than TWG Global is supposedly the investment vehicle for “silent” partner Mark Walter and Guggenheim Partners financial investments. Making me guess that perhaps it stands for Towriss Walter Guggenheim?

 

Mark Walter is part owner of the World Champion LA Dodgers and the Chelsea Football Club amongst other business ventures.

 

While Dan Towriss is not only the CEO of Gainbridge, but the Head of TWG Global, as its motorsports boss. With General Motors being quite happy to work with Towriss and Company. Just not Michael Andretti…

 

Therefore, no matter how Poppa’ Mario has tried spinning it to Nathan Browne. About His son Michael taking one for the team Rah-Rah-Rah! After a tumultuous three year attempt of becoming an F1 team owner. It seems really sad that Mikey’ got screwed, Err squeezed out only two months before this finally happened, and something just smells really fishy to Mwah! Even if He was handsomely rewarded financially.

 

But the Fat Cats get richer, since Towriss and Walter and whomever have successfully bought into Formula 1 prior to the new, upcoming 2026 Concorde Agreement. Which All of the existing ten teams have been screaming for the Dissolution Fee of $200 million to be increased to $600 million! Saving them nearly a cool half billion dollars admission fee! Although I can only wonder if TWG Global and GM would have paid this anyways?

Update

On December 10th, Ferrari confirmed that it had agreed in principle to supply GM/Cadillac with customer Ferrari Power Units in a multi-year agreement beginning in 2026 with Andretti Formula Racing LLC. Contingent upon Cadillac being confirmed by Liberty Media to compete in formula 1…

What’s really going On at Andretti Global?

Was this an ominous sign portraying Mikey A’s future IndyCar team ownership? (The Tomaso Collection)

 

Sing it Jimmy Morrison. “Keep your Eyes on the Road and Hands upon the Wheel!”

 

One of the two biggest IndyCar offseason stories (to date) has to be the bombshell dropped by Jay Penske’s Sportico on Friday, September 27th. Claiming that Michael Andretti had relinquished ownership control of His namesake Andretti Global racing operation, Say What!

 

Now I’m not gonna try connecting any dots, especially since I cannot “see” them! But this story, and the subsequent He said, She said back ‘n forth denial denials just make my head Hurt! Especially since I think my Tinfoil Hat’s aluminum is making the brim too small…

 

Although I must say I’m not buying the By gosh, Gee Wally pass me another glass ‘O lemonade sultry sweet AP Damage limitations article posted either! As seriously? You talk to Jenna Fryer of the AP before talking to your employees?

 

Naturally several thoughts have sprung to mind. As I’ll begin with how apropos this news breaking is in conjunction with this year’s impending United States Grand Prix at circuit Of The Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas this weekend, CoInky-dense?

 

As doesn’t it seem so quaint now? Recalling when Mikey A’ didn’t even have a notebook to carry His please sign this admittance slip in a hastily bought Miami Dolphins folder Wayback’ when. Y’all know when He was trying vainly to get the ten Formula 1 Team Principals to support His bid for an eleventh F1 team, which we All know how that’s gone, Righto! Which I believe only Zak Brown of McLaren and the former boss of Alpine signed.

 

Hmm, somehow I doubt we’ll hear anything about the ongoing Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Antitrust investigation over Liberty media and Formula One Management (FOM) categorically rejecting Andretti’s successful FIA Application to become Formula One’s eleventh F1 Constructor. Since the Fat Cats want an extra $400m as in millions thrown into their F1 prize delusion fund! Wanting the figure bumped to $600m regardless of the current legally binding Concorde agreement.

 

Listening to Marshall Pruett’s The Week in IndyCar October 2nd podcast, where Marshall spent almost the first 30mins on the subject. I came away feeling this is most definitely a power grab being made by Daniel Towriss! Who’s the CEO of Group 1001, an Insurance and Financial security firm based in Zionsville, Indiana.

 

Although Pruett notes that Towriss is essentially the “Point” man running the day-to-day operations of Andretti global. Having become Michael Andretti’s boss, Youch!

 

Towriss and His Group 1001 may actually report to Mark Walter, the CEO of Guggenheim Partners? A Global Investments firm with holdings of some $300-325 Billion, Youza! While Walter Himself is part owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Chelsea Premiere Football team and the Womens Professional Hockey league.

 

Although I’ll confess I don’t know the exact “linkage” between Walter, Towriss and the Andretti Acquisition Corporation established in 2021 with an initial IPO of $250 million. Which seems specifically created for the creation of the proposed Andretti Global F1 Team.

 

Interestingly, a one Messer Zak Brown is one of it’s Shareholding Directors. Not to mention being a business partner with Michael Andretti…

 

Arse-suming Y’all know the back story over how Group 1001 thru it’s flagship Gainbridge brand initially funded Zach Veach for a three year drive at Andretti Autosport in 2018. Before Veach was jettisoned with three races remaining on His deal, with Andretti keeping the Gainbridge sponsorship.

 

Then Towriss (and Company) bought an ownership stake in Andretti, reportedly pouring in $250 million! To finance the building of the newly renamed Andretti Global operation’s expansion hopefully into Formula 1 and NASCAR. As they’ve got an “association” with Spire Motorsports. The acquisition of Wayne Taylor Racing and it’s Formula E, Extreme E and Supercars teams.

 

Along with the completion of it’s $200m, 400,000 square foot Taj Mahal facility in Fishers, Indiana, which resides on a sprawling 91 acres tract! And is slated for it’s Grand Opening on March 5, 2025, according to Marissa Andretti. Marco Andretti’s younger sister, who’s Vice President of Andretti Global, and Managing Director of Andretti Technologies.

 

As Pruett notes, He’s not worried over the IndyCar side of the operation going forward. Especially since two of it’s three entries are currently backed by Group 1001properties, i.e.; Gainbridge on Colton Herta’s No. 26, and Delaware Life on Marcus Ericsson’s No. 28. Although sponsorship of Kyle Kirkwood’s No. 27 is somewhat questionable next year.

 

And hopefully the team will remain in Indy NXT with its current four car operation. Ideally six entries, including it’s partnership with Cape Motorsports, albeit that may get trimmed back?

 

As everything just seems to circle back to the team’s F1 aspirations, and limiting the “unseemly” noise Michael and His Papa Mario have been making, even if they’re correct!

 

As it seems that a phrase I’ve become well accustomed with lately, that being the Straw that Broke the Camel’s back! Appears to be the FBI being called to investigate the alleged theft of (IP) Intellectual Property from Andretti to Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing by a former Andretti employee.

 

Is there total collusion going on in Formula 1, you bet! As recall how FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem who started this whole mess by opening up the F1 team application process. Has made a total U-turn, telling Andretti they should now buy an existing F1 team instead…

 

Yet I cannot help but wonder about how much money has been poured into establishing the 48,000 square foot Formula 1 base in Europe by Andretti Global. Saying they’re pressing on towards having an F1 chassis ready. Not to mention how much are the employees salaries? Along with operational costs, which I don’t know if that involves wind tunnel costs, etc.

 

As reportedly the FIA “wink-wink”, Liberty Media and FOM stance is that the door’s wide open for General Motors to join in 2028 with their flagship brand Cadillac being a Power Unit (PU) supplier.

 

And Marshall seems to hint that it appears that GM and Cadillac have decided they want to steer the F1 ship, presumably with a Cadillac Racing team circumventing Michael Andretti…

 

Thus as Geo. Phillips of Oilpressure fame said regarding this thorny subject. Get your popcorn ready! As I doubt we’ll ever know the true story behind this? Even though it sure seems like Michael Andretti’s been forced into early retirement, who’ll soon turn 62 years old.

 

Yet although nothing lasts for ever, especially life! I find it inconceivable that Mikey would have thrown in the towel when His burning desire is to become a Formula 1 team owner. And Yeah, I’ve read His “Open letter to Fans”. 

Michael Andretti’s Open letter to Fans

As You make the Call…

 

On the heels of the maelstrom regarding Micheal Andretti’s decision to scale back His participation in His namesake Andretti Global racing operation. Andretti has since penned the following open letter to us, the Fans. Which I’ll leave it up to Y’all what to make of it?

 

https://racer.com/2024/10/07/andretti-pens-open-letter-to-our-fans/

 

Yet with Mikey A’s apparent decision to focus more upon family. Hmm, where have I heard that catch-all phrase before? I cannot help but wonder if this is the start of the demise of individual team ownership in IndyCar thanks to the Charter system? And teams will just become faceless corporate conglomerates instead?

 

Since I think it was David Land who pondered if this would become Andretti in name only like Williams F1 is today… 

Formula 1 continues giving Mikey’ the Knife

As we’re Full Up and Don’t got room for Yuhs Andretti!

 

Arse-sumedly lost in All of the hyperbole over this weekend’s Steal your Money Las Vegas Grand Prix! Was the never ending plight of Michael Andretti trying to get His Andretti Global racing team onto Formula One’s Grid, preferably in 2025. Although that window seems to be fast closing…

 

Since the majority of the current ten Formula 1 Teams are strongly opposed to Andretti Global joining their exclusive party. Even if Andretti’s now been given the green light regarding it’s submittal to become the 11th F1 Team on the grid by the FIA.

 

Not to mention that Renault has publicly announced that Andretti’s engine, Err Power Unit (PU) agreement has expired, and that they’ll need to renegotiate with le Reggie’ for a supply of current spec PU’s for a 2025 F1 campaign under the guise of Andretti Cadillac.

 

Yet when reading Grizzled F1 Journo’ Joe Saward’s Green Notebook from Waxahachie a Fortnight ago. I was struck by the thought I’ve been harbouring awhile now.

 

As the ten ‘lil Indians, Err F1 Teams biggest conjecture or main talking point these days is how an Andretti F1 Team running at the back of the grid will be damaging to Formula 1, Seriously?

 

Shouting to myself what is Gene Haas’s perpetually underperforming Haas F1 Team doing to it’s current Share prices? Y’all know, the last place team on the grid!

 

And why did  the line “It reeks of Politics” from Midnight Oil’s Forgotten Years song immediately pop-up upon my internal radar?

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9eap_cKLP4

 

Yes, I understand how the current F1 Cartel, Uhm 10 Formula 1 teams don’t want to loose any money currently being doled out to them by Liberty Media. Or how they feel that the $200m as in Millions Anti-Dilution fund Mikey A’ and His constituents will be required to pay is deemed too low of an “entry Fee” for aspiring Formula 1 teams…

 

But you know what? As far as I’m aware of, nobody held a Gun to their Heads when signing their current Concorde agreement contracts! Which stipulates these current terms…

 

And although I’m not one to get wrapped up in Jingoism, and absolutely do not give a Rat’s Patooey where the F1 Teams come from or our Flagged. But regardless, you cannot say this concerted effort to deprive Andretti from taking the eleventh team spot upon the F1 grid doesn’t give an appearance of trying to keep an American entity from competing on an majorly European playing field!

 

Now am I saying we All should be calling Him Saint Michael? Absolutely Not! Since obviously Mikey A’ and His financial partners see the value of becoming a Formula 1 team, which is what All Businessmen do.

 

But All I can hear ringing in my Head whenever I read something upon this battle royale is the word Collusion!

 

Since wouldn’t it be better to take Andretti’s money now before the F1 Bubble Bursts? Which I can only see happening sooner than later with the onslaught of Max Verstappen making a mockery out of Formula 1! And that we’re locked into another two years of this Dull dominance. Which surely has to be somewhat demoralizing to the rest of the F1 Grid!

 

As Tacoma Bureau Chief Mary Ellen said it best prior to the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. Saying why don’t they send everybody else Home and just let MaxiMillions’ drive round in circles?

 

Meanwhile, General Motors has announced that it will only partner Andretti Global in Formula 1 with it’s Cadillac brand, despite F1 suggesting they find a different partner. With GM planning to hold discussions with F1 Commercial Rights Holder Liberty Media and FOM (Formula One Management( over the Lost Wages’ Grand Prix weekend…

https://racer.com/2023/11/20/team-bosses-still-wary-of-andretti-cadillac-despite-power-unit-commitment

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F1: FIA Approves Andretti Formula 1 Entry submission

But will Formula One Management be so Brazen to Deny them?

 

News broke over a Fortnight ago over the FIA approving Michael Andretti’s submission for “Expressions of Interest” to the FIA to join the Formula 1 Grid.

 

As Andretti Cadillac was the only one of four “level two” applications to meet the FIA’s Due diligence “vetting” process. Enabling Andretti to now seek commercial approval to become Formula One’s eleventh team from Formula One Management, (FOM) the Commercial rights Holder of F1.

 

As we know, F1 President Stefano Dominicali and eight of the current ten Formula 1 Teams have been exceedingly luke-warm to Michael Andretti’s effort to become an F1 Constructor.

 

Principally fearing loss of their income stream of Guaranteed Moohlah’, along with potentially a smaller prize amount due to Gasp! Finishing behind Andretti in the vaunted F1 Constructors Championship!

 

The FIA has now done it’s part in completing it’s Expressions of Interest reequirements, meaning the Ball’s now squarely in FOM’s Hands. For which I say once again, what are the current ten Formula 1 Teams so afraid of?

 

As surely Mikey A’s presence will be spotted at Austin’s Circuit Of The Americas (COTA) racetrack during this weekend’s USGP… 

F1: Mirages on Miami’s Hard Rock Bay

Huh,  I Don’t see ‘Ol Don Johnson’s Cigarette Boat in the Hard Rock Stadium’s Harbour…

 

Perhaps it’s just being an “Off weekend” for Indy Cars that helped me focus upon the Miami Grand Prix? Or that the TV Broadcast times were overly pleasant for us West coast viewers for a change? Since I Didn’t bother getting up at Oh Dark 30 for Any of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix Uhm, “Action.”

 

As I Don’t wanna say that was a Dull race! But I cannot remember the last time I willingly switched Thy Telie’ off with nearly an Hour’s replay remaining Sunday evening in order to listen to a CD Audiobook instead! And Being more interested in the Adventures of Froto Baggins…

 

Also realized the obvious, that having TV Announcers, Err Pundits who are cohesive, knowledgeable, but Don’t take themselves to seriously Helps immensely! And even though I found myself wondering over whether ‘Ol Martin Billybob’ Brundle’s being “Eased Out” in favour of a younger Jenson Button? I got to enjoy lots of Face-time with my favourite Pundit fondly known simply as ANT’, aka Anthony Davidson! Who brings a fresh, easy to listen to perspective. And the chemistry between Him, Jense’ (Button) and either Kroftie’, aka David Kroft or Rachel Brooks was effusive! With the Cherry on Top being that my favourite Pitlane Reporter Theodore, Not Lenny! Dravitz was on Duty also.

 

Yet with another perceived Red Bull Whitewash, I started Hearing Sir Paul in my Head singing those familiar words; as sing it Paul!

 

“Fixing A Hole where the Rain Gets in, and Stops My Mind from Wondering where It will Go?”

 

Since although I’d laugh myself Silly if Checo’ could really, truly pull off the Sport’s biggest upset since I Dunno? Perhaps 2016, Eh? My Brain’s screaming you’re A Dreamer Sergio Perez! Thinking you can actually become World Champion over Red bull’s Golden Boy Maxi-Millions!

 

But then again, may be since Formula 1 is so very, very Dull right now! That’s All that the F1 Pundits can conjer up to talk about? And with Perez trailing Verstappen by only six points. Which Me thinks is the “tightest” the Points gap will be this season, then I’d say Tally Ho! “Smoke ‘em if You’ve Got ‘em!”

 

Hence this made me ponder just how many Formula 1 teammates had been F1 World Champions over the Decades? And this is what I mentally came up with.

 

1950-51: Alfa Romeo, Giuseppe Farina-Juan Manuel Fangio; 1966-67: Brabham, Jack Brabham-Dennis Hulme; 1984-85: McLaren, Niki Lauda-Alain Prost; 1988-89: McLaren, Ayrton Senna-Alain Prost; 1996-97: Williams, Damon Hill-Jacques Villeneuve; 2015-16: Mercedes, Lewis Hamilton-Nico Rosberg.

 

Thus in 73 years of modern era Grands Prix racing, this feat has only occurred six times. Making me think the Odds are stacked against Sergio Perez. And that’s even before we get to the Fact that Red Bull is Max Verstappen’s team!

 

Meanwhile, I can only Arse-sume that the pressure upon Williams F1 American rookie Logan Sargeant was sweltering that weekend, a la the temperatures around Miami Gardens Hard Rock Stadium! Especially since Y’all cannot “Cool” yourselves Down in Lake Hard Rock’s Wading Pool!

 

Heard Button saying that Logan’s face is on Billboards everywhere, and He’s on countless Magazine covers. And then Jense’ threw in some strange to Mwah Stat about Sargeant having scored three consecutive 16th place finishes and angling for four, Huh?

 

In Friday’s “Morning” Practice Session 1, Williams Team leader Alexander Albon was 15th with Logan P19. And then in (Free Practice) FP2, Albon improved to 10th, whilst Sargeant dropped to last in P20.

 

Hmm? Wonderin’ if Mikey A’ was quietly making the rounds in the F1 Paddock this weekend in Hopes of getting the European Boys Club to accept His Andretti Global’s application to become a Formula 1 Constructor?

 

As I’m simply, completely tired of the current F1 Theocracy and constantly Hearing the views of Red Bull’s Pied Piper Chris Horner and Mercedes Herr Crying Wolff! And why is Formula 1 so Afraid of having 24 Cars on it’s Grid?

 

As was it just a year ago when Micheal Andretti hurriedly borrowed a Miami dolphins folder to walk around the Paddock trying to get the ten F1 Team bosses to sign His piece of paper?

 

Saturday’s FP3 session saw Albon move up one position to ninth, ahead of both Mercedes and Aston Martins! While Sargeant improved to P17.

 

It was G-Damn Funny Hearing Kroftie’ say welcome back Martin Brundle as Qualie’ began…

 

Whilst going Onboard Sargeant’s car, Brundle noted He’d made a mess of the corner! As Logan would fail to advance out of Q1 and wound up P20.

 

Albon made it into Q2, but finished a tantalizing 11th, missing the “Cut” by one position. Before the Top-10 Pole Shootout was Red Flagged with 1:36 remainning and Sergio Perez on Pole! With Verstappen an unexpected P9.

 

Sunday I turned Thy Telie’ on just before High Noon Pacific, since the race was on ABC and just listed as a 3.5 Hours program, for which I know the Grand Prix itself has only a maximum time of two Hours. And just so happened to catch both of Brundel’s famous Grid Walks. With the latter being just Famous people…

 

Oh Hello Michael Andretti! Hows the application for your Formula 1 Team going? For which it was funny hearing Mikey A’ saying All the right things about Hoping to be Approved sometime this July. Before telling ‘Ol Billybob’ that they’d be racing in 2025 if approved, to which Martin was surprised. With Michael saying we’re working dillingently “Behind the Scenes” and will be ready to go with Cadillac…

 

Lastly, what in the Hell was All of that Stupendous Made for TV Hollywood Drivers intro racket by LL Cool J?

 

As I haven’t heard anything as Disgusting since the ‘Ol Rope-A-Dope Let’s Get Ready to Rumble Red Carpet Bullshit F1 Drivers intro at Circuit Of the Americas (COTA) several years ago! Which wisely Liberty Media Canned! For which they need to do again El Pronto! Even if I’ve read Liberty media’s planning to do this time of Bullshit up to eight times this year, FRACK!

 

As I’d been told that I couldn’t See how Liberty Media Had gone All Glitz ‘N Glamour this season, but I sure could Nauseatingly Feel It during the Pomp ‘N Circumstance, SPEW!

 

For which The Guardian’s F1 Reporter giles Richareds got 100% correct when He said that the race itself did Not live up to All of the Razz-muh-Tazz that Liberty Media so desperately wants for it’s “Destination” events…

 

As I’m glad to have read that the Drivers Arent’ impressed by this Nonsense either!

 

https://www.grandprix.com/news/f1-drivers-hit-out-at-miami-gp-pre-race-spectacle.html

 

Uhm, look at All of the Purdy Mermaids Mom! 

Ford Joins the Formula 1 Party, along with Five Other registered PU Suppliers in 2026

As FoMoCo’ jumps on the Formula 1 Bandwogon, and Hopes to Cash in…

 

By now it’s old news over the Ford Motor Company announcing their return to Formula 1 in the Big Apple ten days ago. When Red Bull became the very first ever Formula 1 Constructor to hold an F1 Car launch in the United States. Making it’s ‘lil Seester Scuderia AlphaTauri’s NYC launch two days ago seem somewhat Quaint.

 

As what seems overlooked was that on the same day of Ford’s announcement, the FIA also announced that six Power Unit (PU) Manufacturers had registered to supply Power Units for the 2026-2030 PU Formulae.

 

The most interesting of these six, which include two new enities, is the return of Honda. While the three current PU suppliers, i.e.; Alpine, (Renault) Ferrari and Mercedes Benz are joined by Audi and Red Bull Ford.

 

What’s Funny about this to Mwah is All of  the Grumbling being made by the current 10 F1 Teams over Michael Andretti’s ambitions of becoming the Sport’s 11th Formula 1 Constructor with GM’s Cadillac for 2026. Since they’re “worried” it will be a Badge Engineering exercise, which is exactly what Ford just agreed to due with Red Bull and AlphaTauri. But I guess the only difference is that those are existing F1 Teams, and I noticed that they were careful to call it Red Bull Ford instead…

 

But like I said. The most interesting Playah’ in this announcement was Honda’s desire to now return to Formula 1 after having pulled the plug at the end of the 2021 F1 season.

 

Thus I can only speculate is this who Andretti and Cadillac would partner with to build their PU’s? Since General Motors and Honda have a habbit of sharing joint technical alliances. Presuming that the ten little European F1 Teams are gracious enough to allow Michael Andretti to join their exclusive party.

 

Otherwise I’m left wondering who Honda would produce Power Units for? Although Williams Honda would have a nice synergy to it, provided it’s newly anointed Team Principal James Vowles can right it’s floundering ship?

 

Or will Honda power a yet as of unknown of potential, new 12th F1 Constructor? And what about the stillborn Porsche PU effort? And does this mean that the current 10 F1 Teams won’t let Cadillac come and play?

 

But like Grizzled F1 Journo’ Hoe Saward just said regarding the annual F1 Car launch season. It’s the Warm ‘N Fluffy part of the season. When everybody has visions of Grandeur, even though some are Delusional! 

Andretti Joins IMSA’s GTP Party, Next F1?

Although we won’t See any “tangible” Changes until 2024…

 

Why did that ‘Ol Leonard Cohen song First We Take Manhattan, then Berlin song come to mind when beginning to scribble this? Yuhs know; like Andrettie Global, First We Take GTP, then the World? Oh Never Mind…

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTTC_fD598A

 

Otay, so it’s old news now that Mikey A’ and His eponymous Andretti Global Empire, Err Andretti Autosport bought an Ownership Stake in Wayne Taylor Racing in order to join the IMSA GTP category. With the new outfit being named Wayne Taylor Racing with Andretti Autosport.

 

Geez! Like did Mikey and Wayne just try stealing from Dale Coyne’s Vanna I wanna Buy A Vowel Alphabet Soup naming brigade? As I’ll try calling it Double A with WTR for Short. Since Marshall Pruett says AA is some other organization…

 

As nothing changes for 2023, with WTR remaining at it’s current Brownsburg, Indiana Shop and running it’s No. 10 Acura ARX-06 GTP Prototype and No. 93 Acura NSX GT3 Evo22 GTD programs virtually unchanged this year.

 

But where things get interesting is obviously next year. Since everybody and their Puppy Dawgs’ just cannot see how Double A with WTR, or perhaps better instead, WTR-Andretti Doesn’t Morph into a two car Acura GTP operation. Not to mention surely a trip to Circuit de la Sarthe will be on the calendar for 2024.

 

Thus the only racing series currently left off of Michael Andretti’s Bucket list is le Crème de la Crème. A la Formula 1.

 

Which leads me to my bit of pure 100% Speculation. Especially since the Head of the FIA, Mohammed Ben Sulayem has just announced He wants the FIA to explore creating the process for Expressions of Interest for New Teams wishing to enter Formula 1. Which notably includes Andretti Global’s wishes to become Formula One’s 11^th F1 Constructor El Pronto!

 

If this process is opened in time for the 2024 F1 Season? Then I’d Arse-sume that Andretti Global would be utilizing a le Reggie’, Err Renault Power Unit. (PU) But with Andretti’s new Mega 575,000 Square Foot compound in Fishers, Indiana not coming “Online” until 2025, is that the earliest Andretti could go racing in Formula 1?

 

And now cementing themselves to another Honda programme, albeit Acura branded Sports Cars. Along with Honda having recently announced a possible interest to returning to Formula 1 when the new 2026 Engine Formulae begins. Could Mikey A’s Andretti Global become the new Honda “Flagship” in Formula 1?

 

Obviously, only time will tell, and I’m just making some very large, Uhm, I cannot See where I’m Holding my Paint Roller at, Splat!

 

Update

Naturally, a day after I’d Uploaded this story, Mikey A’ Dropped His latest bombshell with the announcement of partnering with General Motors (GM) and it’s Cadillac Brand for a proposed Formula 1 entry. With the announcement being made shortly after Mohamed Ben Sulayem’s tweeted His desire for the FIA to come up with a process for Expressions of Interest for future F1 entrants.

 

As Michael Andretti confidently said He believes this is the last Box to Tick, bringing a major Automobile Manufacturer to Formula 1 in order to push His desired Andretti Global’s 11th F1 Constructor Bid over the Finish line. Although it won’t happen next year, and seems likely to be aimed towards the 2026 F1 Season, when new Power Units are introduced…

 

https://www.grandprix.com/news/andretti-announces-plans-to-enter-f1-partnering-with-gm.html

Can Formula One’s Las Vegas race Hasten the Arrival of a new U.S. F1 Driver?

And what will Team Willy’s Driver Academy member The Sarge’, aka Logan Sargent have to Say about It?

 

Having been briefly upon a ferociously Ah-Blowin’ Oregon Beach with 40mph+ Winds during a (60-70mph) High Wind Warning en route to Warshington’, and away from Ye All Knowing Intrawoods’. (Internet) Naturally I missed the news over Andretti Autosport’s prized IndyCar driver Colton Herta signing an F1 Testing and Development Dealio’ with McLaren.

 

And it’s nice that the Medea’s finally reporting the obvious, that Colton currently does Not have the necessary Haul of points required for the mandatory FIA Superlicence to race in formula 1, currently being eight points shy of the 40 points required.

 

Thus I’ll take it at face value, that this is two Business Partners, i.e.; Mikey A’ and Zackery Brown Helping each other, since Michael Andretti and Brown are partners in Walkinshaw Andretti United’s Supercars team Down Under.

 

As it’s worth noting that Colton’s currently contracted to Andretti Autosport thru 2023, so the F1 Testing Gig’ will be done in between his current Day Job as an Indycar driver.

 

Yet Arse-sumedly it’s a Win Win Dealio for All involved. As Herta can not only get some F1 miles under his belt, but also accrue poonts towards a future FIA Superlicence, whilst Brown and McLaren get to evaluate a potential future driver  when DannyRic’s, nee Daniel Ricciardo’s contract expires at the end of 2023, in case they Don’t extend their relationship.

 

Reportedly the deal Doesn’t impact another potential McLaren F1 driver’s prospects, that being Pato O’Ward of Arrow MCLaren SP, who tested for the McLaren F1 Team during last year’s Young Drivers evaluation outing at Abu Dhabi as his reward for winning an IndyCar race.

 

Whilst Liberty Media’s top Banana CEO Greg Maffei is now Bullish upon it’s newest crown Jewell Sin City turning Up the Wick for a new, Hot U.S. Driver prospect in Formula 1 to further Pump Up it’s revenues, Err, I meant U.S. TV Viewership ratings, as we Need to “Squeeze Out One more Hit!”

 

All of which makes me wonder why the current 10 Formula 1 Constructors and the FIA are so lukewarm towards welcoming Mikey A’ and another team to the fold?

 

Since with 24 F1 races expected soon and the $200 million entry fee to appease the slight loss of profits? I cannot See how this isn’t good Business for All involved! As why are they Afraid of new competition?

 

Oh Yeah, in case Y’all haven’t Heard? Liberty Media and Formula 1 have announced it’s third U.s. F1 race to be held in Lost Wages’, aka Sin City, nee Las Vegas beginning in November 2023 as a Saturday Night race running upon the famed Vegas Strip.

 

Although contrary to speculation, according to Grizzled F1 Journo’ Joe Saward, the initial contract is just for three years, in order for both parties to be Happy with it’s outcome. While Liberty Media and it’s Formula 1 Group will promote the race itself thru Live Nation which Liberty Media owns…

 

Meanwhile, and I’m just totally speculatin’ here, But! Hmm, could we see Colton Herta behind the wheel of one of McLaren’s F1 Chariots in Friday’s (Free Practice) FP1 session at COTA, nee Circuit Of The Americas this October?

 

But does Formula 1 really need another American F1 Driver in order to be popular Stateside? Especially since it’s current growth is supposedly due to that Keeping Up with The Cardashian’s, Err Drive to Survive Netflix series!

 

Whilst the last Yank’ in F1, Alexander Rossi has long since moved on since his brief tenure with the Manor Marussia F1 Racing Team Wayback in 2015… 

Some F1 Highs and Lows

Psst, Look Over Here, Watch the Birdie! Like what IndyCar Season Opener or Day-Toner’ 500 race, Tweet Tweet…

 

Have to say I’m Highly intrigued over the timing of some recent formula 1 announcements, most notably how do All of the separate parties involved know to “launch” their respective stories so close together?

 

First we had the FIA’s much awaited announcement regarding Safety Car Gate in Abu Dhabi, Dropping on the same day la Scuderia were launching Thar 2022 Spec SF-75 chassis, CoInky-dense? Or was this Mohammed Ben Xulayem’s not so clever way of saying Thanks Monsieur Todt for the Fucking Mess you left me!

 

And Toto Wolff says He’s Happy with the FIA’s resolutions, most notably Getting His Way, Uh Duh! And effectively having now former Formula 1 Race Director Michael Masi Fired…

 

Yes, I know that the FIA has said it will offer the 44yr old Aussie’ a new role in the FIA, if He so desires to accept it? And I can understand why Ben Sulayem and his Administration felt this was needed, i.e.; Clean Break over last year’s farcical Debacle on Yas Isle, But!

 

I still feel this sets a very Bad precedent, since to Mwah, it says that the FIA simply Cowtowed to Toto Woff, Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes wishes! Meaning when whichever other F1 Team Principal gets Pissed Off at either of the two new F1 Race Directors and Huffs ‘N Puffs?

 

And whilst this press release was making the rounds globally, along with Sir Lewis saying I Never Said I was Quitting! I just let everybody including my Boss toto Play Y’all As Fools! Uhm, what was that Joe (Saward) about Vitriol, Oops…

 

Uhm, I meant the Ballyhooed launch of the Mercedes W13 Blah Blah Blah, lookie Thar Y’all! Formula 1 andCOTA, nee Circuit Of The Americas announced a five year extension thru 2026, Tuh Duh!

 

Then on Friday, SuperMario’, aka Mario Andretti got the Green light from son Mikey A’ to Tweet how his son was ready to pay the $200m as in Millions! FIA Entry Fee to launch his own Formula 1 Team in 2024, Zoinks!

 

Yes Yes Mario told Racer’s Chris Medland, in regards to Michael Andretti having the funds to pay the $200m entry fee to appease the current 10 F1 Constructors over their loss of Prize Money revenues.

 

With Mario saying the Engineering, preparations and maintenance of the Cars would All be done from a UK Base, and that Andretti would just build some components at their Indianapolis Shop…

 

Naturally, colton Herta would most likely be one of the new team’s two drivers, and this seems largely like a Funding and Publicity exercise to Mwah. Since I’ve fallen for this once before with some Stillborn USF1 Outfit and it’s Fast Talker Peter Windsor!

 

So perhaps I’m being Cynical here? As I’d be totally excited and Happy if Team Andretti truly showed up on the F1 Grid in 2024! And you’d like to think that it would be powered by le Reggie’, nee Renault, since they’re the only Engine Manufacturer with a single Constructor on the Grid currently. And Alpine seems to be getting “It’s House” in Order, so who knows?

 

But what I really want to know, were the COTA extension and possible Andretti Global F1 Team announcements simply designed to move us away from the narrative of Safety Car Gate? Not to mention only having read Grizzled F1 Journo’ Joe Saward’s take upon the other more pressing FIA matters, i.e.; the new 2026 Engine formulae.

 

Not to mention Joe, who Knows F1 mentioning a French Rally Car being Detonated by a Bomb in Saudi Arabia during this year’s Dakar Rally, while the FIA said that it was Ok for the Rally to precede! And Saudi Arabia saying they didn’t know what caused the Car’s explosion…

 

And now on top of this comes a very lukewarm, Milk-toast reply from the FIA on Mikey’s A’s attempt to start his own Formula 1 Team in 2024. With the FIA stating that “It’s currently Not in the position to Consider or comment on Any expressions of Interest or Applications received by potential New Entrant Teams in regards to the FIA Formula 1 World Championship.”

 

Say What? You’re Not in a “Position” to Consider New Formula 1 Teams? Like isn’t that your Fucking Job! And why are the ten F1 Constructors so worried about more competition? Especially since they All get a ridiculous golden Parachute to “Soften” their potential loss of revenue…

 

But if we’re really going to believe all of the Hype Liberty media’s trying to Sell us and Drink Ye proverbial Kool Aid, then why wouldn’t the Sport want a second American Flagged Formula 1 team in it’s future?

 

As I’m just becoming more ‘N more Amazed over how much Formula 1 is Turning Me off these days! El Stupidio Sprint qualifying Duds, Golden child’ (Hamilton) Mainia, and now F1 Team bosses worried about protecting Thar Pocketbooks vs. Adding New Formula 1 Teams, Oh Never Mind!