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”. 

MotoGP’s Maddening Hunt for it’s New Television Home

And Who the Bloody Hell is TruTV?

 

If you’re a MotoGP Fan, then you’ve already heard about Liberty Media, owners of Formula 1 jut having acquired control of MotoGP. As it must be nice being Flush with Cash! Since reportedly Liberty Media’s paying $4.2b as in billions for an 86% ownership stake in MotoGP. With Dorna Sports, the current owners and promoters of MotoGP retaining 14%.

 

Although the deal is subject to approval by Foreign Countries legal approval, most notably the European Commission’s Anti-Competition laws. Since previous Formula 1 ower CVC Capital had to divest it’s ownership of Dorna sports in 2006 for approval to sell F1 to Liberty media…

 

But this riveting No Fenders yarn is about how much time I wasted trying to discover where MotoGP was airing upon my ridiculously overpriced Spectrum Cable TV.

 

Having learned earlier this year during March Madness that TNT Sports had scooped up MotoGP at the last minute from NBC Sports, I wondered where this new entity I’d never heard of before resided Stateside, and whether or not I even had access to it?

 

Stumblin’ ‘n bumblin’ my way, as where’s ‘Ol chris Berman when Yuhs need Him, eh? I somehow discovered that TNT Sports resided on TruTV, Who? As I think I spent nearly an hour figuring that out…

 

Whilst naturally, the first MotoGP race I could have “watche”, Err listened to went directly Head-to-Head with that stupendous Whose your Daddy $1 million Sweepstakes Challenge at the Thermal Club, which I elected to view instead.

 

Having missed the first two MotoGP races of the season, I was intent to watch the U.S. Grand Prix from Austin, Texas April 14th, since Thar still weren’t no IndyCar racing to partake, Urgh!

 

Thus naturally, I Arse-sumed that the biggest MotoGP race of the year Stateside would be on TruTV, El Correctomundo? For which my repeated searching upon my Zap2It’ TV Guide showed zero Sunday live race coverage, Say What?

 

This led me down a very long Wabbit’ Hole of vainly trying to deduce where if at all TNT Sports was located upon my Cable TV package? For which I felt like I’d spent at least another hours time trying to deduce this, Frick! As who was it that wrote about the U.S. market being a really tough “Nut to Crack”.

 

I tried repeatedly entering my street address and zip code into the Spectrum Channel guide, which kept saying I needed to enter a complete address, which I did you El Stupidio website! Before I broke down and called Spectrum to see if they could tell me if I had TNT Sports?

 

To which the amiable customer representative said He’d never heard of that channel before. Wait a minute it’s a UK and Ireland channel. To which I replied no, that’s TNT International. Before He tried searching for TNT Americas before saying I definitely didn’t have that channel!

 

Now little did I know that TNT Sports is the umpteenth rebranding of what began life as separate sporting entities of Ted Turner’s Turner Broadcasting System’s (TBS) empire Wayback’ in the early 1970’s before officially becoming Turner Sports in 1995. And has since gone thru major ownership changes since then. Most recently under Warner Brothers and Discovery Sport’s control until 2023. Better known as WBTV Discovery Sports, and I think it’s still owned by this faction today, Cornfuzed?

 

Looking up TNT Sports (United States) on the All knowing Intrawoods’, nee internet revealed that of their multitude of current Sports properties, i.e.; NBA, NHL, MLB, etc. As of 2024 MotoGP would air upon TruTV for both Saturday Sprint races and Sunday races. As I felt like I’d just gone past gO, but definitely didn’t get to collect my $200 Aye Karumba!

 

As TruTV’s Sunday April 14th broadcast schedule felt like a bad impersonation of the USA Network. With Wall-to Wall airings of World’s Dumbest and Impractical Jokers, Spew! Interupted at 12:30PM Pacific by Multi-versus Beloved Warner Bros. Discovery characters take center ice in a matchup of two recent Stanley Cup Champions: Colorado Avalanche vs. Las Vegas Golden Knights. (3Hrs)

 

Meaning that the MotoGP race from Austin, Texas was being preempted by Friggin’ Hockey. Like talk about your Major 5mins Penalties JackArses!

 

As I did manage to find the Saturday Sprint Race and “watched”, Err listened to it’s entire 90mins broadcast, just to compare ‘n contrast to CNBC’s former MotoGP TV coverage. For which I was suitably impressed, even if there was way too much fillig of time by the TV Pundits! Since it appears it’s another European Sports production, perhaps Eurosport? Although I don’t know if it still exists?

 

Then adding insult to injury is the fact that I could watch shortened TV Broadcasts of both Saturday & Sunday’s action back-to-back Monday evening from 4-7PM Pacific. But I Don’t want to wait a whole Flippin’ day after to listen to a race replay Buggers!

 

Leading me to shake my Head in Disgust over how Liberty Media will be able to improve MotoGP’s “reach” in the United States if this is the current treatment the Sport receives. Like I mean, if the United States MotoGP race cannot even be shown live on TV, how do they ever expect the Sport to Grow?

 

Since last time I checked, I believe that the Discovery Channel is owned by Liberty Media, although I couldn’t deduce through All of the Shell companies who owns Discovery Sports, which appears to be part owners of TNT Sports with WBD Sports and the BT Group. (Eurosport) Oh Never Mind!

 

Shame On You MotoGP! 

F1: Talking Turkey, Las Vegas style

        What’s that well used slogan ‘bout What Happens in Las Vegas, Uhm Stays in Vegas…

 

Perhaps it’s just Mwah? But I was simply Cornfuzed over the time F1, ostensibly Liberty Media decided to host it’s inaugural “Ninety Nine percent” Showcase Las Vegas Grand Prix at.

 

Here upon the West coast, you needed to have a score card to keep track of the Dizzying’ (Walt Disney) Network of Shopping channels Formula 1 was being aired upon. With Thursday night’s FP1 (Free Practice) on le Deusch’, aka ESPN2 at 8:25PM Pacific. And FP2 on ESPN at 11:55PM; both being One Hour and five minutes duration.

 

Friday’s FP3 session was on ESPN U at 8:25PM before Qualie’ bounced over to ESPN at 11:55PM; both being 65mins airings. Before the race on Saturday Nite’, what’s that Sir Elton? (John) About Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting…

 

With Saturday night’s TV coverage with the ridiculous 85mins Preamble beginning at 8:30PM Pacific. Followed by race coverage starting at 9:55PM, lasting for a further Two Hours and five minutes, provided No Red flags or Safety Cars were deployed!

 

Having never been real good on ryth-Muh-tickin’, with No Fenders Offical’ Potographer Carpets constantly reminding Mwah that Indianapolis, along with the desired East Coast TV market is plus three Hours ahead of the West Coast. Meaning that the race itself won’t see the Starting lights going Green until a skosh after 1AM Eastern!

 

Making me wonder who’s this race really being held for? The vaunted U.S. market that’s being discussed Ad Nausea? Or instead for the British to have something to watch during their breakfast instead?

 

As that was before Thursday night’s Debacle! Y’all know when a concrete “frame” came loose around a Manhole cover that caught out an unexpecting Carlos Sainz Jr! Effectively writing off His Ferrari SF23 chassis after only eight minutes of Free Practice 1! Not to mention also seriously damaging Estabon Ocon’s Alpine when the Frenchman too collided with the errant Manhole cover, WHAMOE!

 

As I find it totally inconceivable that Sainz was forced to incur a 10-place Grid Penalty for excessive PU (Power Unit) components usage due to this accident, and not of His own making! And that the FIA has No Force Majure clause in it’s sporting regulations for such outcomes!

 

And do Not even get me started on the El Stupidio’, Err Stupendous Olympic themed Opening Ceremonies Bullshit! Y’all know when Max Verstappen said He felt like a Clown!

 

As a Huge part of Mwah wanted to simply Boycott “watching”, Err listening to any of the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend’s theatrics!

 

Although like watching a train wreck or really bad traffic accident. I was semi-intrigued over how Horrific the Pre-race Rope-ah-dope F1 Driver introductions would be?

 

And it sounded like that many of the insanely overpriced “Hospitality” Grand Stand seats would be empty! While General Admission tickets were sold out, with would be Fans clambering for more GA availability! Especially if Y’all gotta pay to stay in some Vegas Strip’s Hotel? Not to mention Air Fare and presumably a rental car to boot?

 

And that was before the possibility of All of the major Hotel’s Chefs being on Strike, Gobble-Gobble!

 

Not to mention the CEO of Liberty Media taking the extraordinary step of publicly Apologizing to the local Las Vegas residents for the Disruption to their Daily lifes! All of which made me Flash back to Phoenix, Arizona’s Iceberg Grand Prix! Which was much unloved by locals for the same reasons. Not to mention being outdrawn by a rival Ostrich Festival!

 

https://www.grandprix.com/news/liberty-issues-public-apology-for-las-vegas-f1-chaos.html

 

Although I’m not sure how much of an “Apology” Gregory Maffei was making by telling the people of Las Vegas that His event would net them $1.7b as in Billion! Revenue for hosting the event.

 

Now may be I’m still cornfuzed, But? Liberty Media’s trumpeting how they want to make Las Vegas’s Grand Prix the Bestest Fan experience ever! But with General Admission tickets reportedly costing $1,156.00, which basically equates to $400 per day being sold out. And Grandstand tickets starting at an outrageously eye watering $11,247.00! Which Fans are Liberty Media pandering too? And Yes, I realize it’s a business, but five nights minimum stay in a Hotel, Yada-Yada-Yada!

 

Not to mention racing in 50 degrees Fahrenheit with Rain expected! Along with Yuhs know it, Stupendous Drivers introduction just makes me shake my Head in Disgust, and wonder who is this race really for?

 

Having been a true Fan of Formula 1 for nearly 40 years now, and supporting F1 Stateside thru it’s “lean” times when nobody but Hard core Fans followed it. I find myself completely turned off by the Disgusting Spectale’ Liberty Media’s turned this Bombastic Grand Prix Uhm, race into!

 

And with it’s truly being “99% Show and 1% Sporting Event!” I personally decided to Boycott “watching”, Err listening to Any of the weekend’s TV coverage, which is one of the few reasons I still pay an outrageous amount for Cable TV…

 

As I’d say I made the right choice for at least Thursday night’s Blunder, err “show”. As (Free Practice) FP2 was delayed two and a half Hours in order to inspect All of the track’s Manhole covers! With Fans being forced to go Home instead of attending the 2:30AM Pacific start time, for an extended 90mins practice. Because of a lack of Security personnel! With practice ending at Gory 4AM, WTF!

 

Whilst I was doing a rain dance in Oregon for Friday night’s Qualie’ session…

 

As I far more care about the MotoGP Championship instead! And simply tuned into Sunday’s 90mins “packaged” Qatar Grand Prix instead. Where the temperatures were cooler than Formula One’s Farcical event in October! Not to mention being a far more competitive Sporting event… 

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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RETRO: A Brief look at Motor Racing in Las Vegas

As will Formula 1 come up All Seven’s this time round?

 

The United States Grand Prix has a long running, meandering history. Having been held at eleven different venues since the inception of today’s modern era Formula 1 World Championship in 1950.

 

Beginning at Sebring in 1959. The USGP has been contested at Riverside, Watkins Glen, Long Beach, Las Vegas, Detroit, Dallas, Phoenix, Indianapolis, Austin and Miami.

 

In 1976, the United States became only the second nation after Italy in 1957 to host two Grands Prix in a single season. And then in 1982 became the first nation to ever hold three Grands Prix in a season. When the United States Grand Prix West, (Long Beach) Detroit Grand Prix and Caesars Palace Grand Prix were part of that year’s Formula 1 calendar.

 

“Sin city’s” first major paved racing facility was the long defunct Stardust International Raceway, in Spring valley With a 13-turn, completely flat three mile road course and Quarter-mile Dragstrip being built and operated by the Stardust Racing Association. Which was an offshoot of the Desert Inn and Stardust Hotel’s attempt to lure visitors to it’s operations.

 

The track hosted the United States Road Racing Championship, (USRRC) Can Am, Trans Am, USAC and NHRA between 1965-71.

 

Inonically the Stardust Racing Association was Disolved on April 1, 1968, one day after the USAC Championship Car series contested it’s lone event, the Stardust 150. Won by Bobby Unser driving for Leader Card Racing, aboard an Eagle-Offenhauser.

 

The second major Open Wheel Racing event in “Los Wages” (Las Vegas) was the 1981 Caesars Palace Grand Prix. Held on a temporary circuit laid out in the Caesars Palace Hotel’s parking lot. Which has come to be revered as one of Formula One’s worst Grands Prix!

 

Alan Jones driving for Williams, the reigning F1 World Champion won the inaugural event. With Nelson Piquet clinching the first of His eventual three World Championships by finishing fifth at Las Vegas.

 

The following year saw Michele Alboreto win for Tyrrell, before Formula 1 abandoned the event. With Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART) taking over the event between 1983-84.

 

Yet the two IndyCar races were held on a modified course that was turned into an “Oblong” Oval, with Mario Andretti and Tom Sneva winning respectively – before the event was cancelled.

 

The Indy Racing League (IRL) held the inaugural event upon the brand new Las Vegas Motor speedway’s (LVMS) 1.5-mile Tri Oval Super Speedway on September 15, 1996, with Richie Hearn the winner. As Hearn’s lap of just under 25 seconds at 219.192mph holds the record for fastest lap.

 

As the IRL would host races thru 2000, before it’s arch nemesis Champ Car contested to races between 2004-05 on the Super Speedway’s Oval. Twinned as a Double Header event with NASCAR’s PickemUp’ Trucks, le Hamburgular’, neeSealmeister B’, aka Sebastien Bourdais won both year’s Saturday night events.

 

Hopefully Formula 1 won’t take a page out of RASSCAR’s play book by nauseatingly droning on about being the first Street race in Las Vegas. Since that honour actually goes to the long defunct Champ Car World Series (CCWS) instead. As it’s funny how I knew that IndyCar had once raced on Sin city’s streets, since I was a Champ Car devotee. Even if I took to calling it Chump Carz’ towards the end – prior to the long overdue Mergification…

 

As my foggy memory says this is also the year I bought a plane ticket for Arizona to attend Champ Cars race around Phoenix’s Downtown Streets, which was subsequently cancelled. Not to mention that Chinese IndyCar race that never happened…

 

Yet I can find only sparce details on that race held over Easter weekend on April 8, 2007. Champ Cars season opener, seeing the debut of the brand new Panoz DP01 chassis, with 17 cars competing.

 

The race was held on a 2.448 mile 14-turn temporary street circuit in the Freemont district, with temperatures reaching 91 degrees Fahrenheit.

 

Reportedly Street parties were held along with a Poker contest, and luminaries Jay Leno and John bon Jovi were on hand. With race day attendance estimated at 40,000 exceeding temporary Grandstand seating…

 

Will Power, driving then for Derrick Walker’s Team Australia alongside rookie teammate Simon Pagenaud, the reigning Champ Car Atlantic champion, had a breakout weekend. As Power clamed Pole and led the most lap, 38 of 68 enroute to His first IndyCar victory.

 

As Power became the first Australian to win an IndyCar race while dominating the race. Finishing nearly 17 seconds ahead of Minardi Team USA’s Bad Bobby D’, aka rookie Robert Doornbos. And Sugar Ray Tracy’, PT’ or simply Paul Tracy third for Forsythe Racing some 27-plus seconds behind.

 

Indy Cars latest foray to Las Vegas was the ill-fated “Who’s Your Daddy” 2011 World Sweepstakes which saw the death of Dan Wehldon and doesn’t need any further discussion than that…

 

Then between 2013-15, the Global Rallycross Championship (GRC) raced on the Streets of Las Vegas’s Prominade, twice being the series season finale. Since I know I “watched”, err listen to at least one of those races when Andretti Autosport teammates Tanner foust and Scott Speed were vying for the title.

 

Yet you’d have to argue that this year’s inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix is the most serious effort to date for racing on the Strip, around it’s neon marquee landmarks. And Liberty Media, owners of F1 have sunk at least a cool $250m as in Millions to acquire property for said event!

 

But I’m sure it’s going to be a disgusting “Dog ‘n Pony” show with the Rich And Famous coming out of the woodwork!

 

Whilst I sincerely Hope that Liberty Media won’t repeat an encore, and even glitzier rendition of that thoroughly disgusting “rope-Ah-dope” LL Cool J’ Miami “Let’s Get Ready to Rumble” Pre-race introduction! 

F1: Farcical Qatar Grand Prix

No Uncle Bernaughty’, Max isn’t the Greatest! And why should I believe anything you say after your latest Tax Cheating scandal! For which I thoroughly enjoyed ‘Ol Martin Billybob’ Brundle give Yuhs the Mickey during His Sao Paulo Grid Walk…

 

Yeah, I know I’m late to thee party once again, but simply haven’t been able to Back-time posting this. And it still seems relevant since we’re off to another Desert, albeit I Don’t expect the same Heat issues in Nevada…

 

Thanks to Qatar being a night race, although it didn’t help much temperature wise! Which I’ll get to shortly. I was able to “watch”, Err listen to Qualie’, the Sprint race and the Grand Prix in their entirety here upon Ye West Coast, with action beginning at 9:55AM Pacific.

 

Although it’s always strange holding qualifying on a Friday, which once again MaxiMillions’ (Max Verstappen) claimed His tenth Pole position of the season, Yawn!

 

Although the Podium interviews was the funniest part of the whole weekend for Mwah! While the female “moderator” was interviewing then third place Oscar Piastri. She said mid sentence; we’ve just been told you’ve been demoted to sixth place for exceeding track linits, but it’s been lovely interviewing you…

 

Saturday’s Sprint race was enjoyable simply because the driver I’m becoming most intrigued upon, ergo rookie Aussie’ Oscar Piastri won.

 

Whilst I think it’s fitting that Verstappen won His third title during a Sprint race that was carried on ESPNews, Crickets?

 

But as everybody knows and probably remembers, it was the race circuit itself, along with the brutally Hot weather that garnered All of the Attenzinoe!

 

Being a brand new racing surface, the first time the fresh Ash-fault’ had been raced upon, along with the extreme temperatures, naturally the oil rose to the surface. As I thought I even heard Verstappen saying the track had Mucho “Slippery Liquids” upon it! As where are Yuhs Uncle Bobby? With Maximilian saing it made them look silly! Making me wonder if this was a contributor to the countless track limits violations?

 

While the pyramid shaped kerbs were worrying to Pirelli, with track limits being altered by simply painting them, along with Pirelli mandating a three stop race and a maximum of 18-laps on any tyre compound.

 

All of which made me immediately think of Michelin Gate! Y’all know that farcical 2005 United States Grand Prix at Indianapolis. Remember that Y’all?

 

And although overall this was handled much better. According to F1 Grizzled Journo’ Joe Saward, Pirelli had warned the FIA of these exact issues back in January.

 

With the maximum 18-lap strategy requiring drivers to go flat out and run Qualie’ laps every lap! Along with temperatures exceeding 50 Celcius in the cockpit = more than 122 degrees Fahrenheit with the race lasting One Hour and 28 minutes! It’s simply amazing we didn’t have any serious racing accidents due to the drivers physical conditions whilst roasting in this sauna for nearly ninety minutes!

 

Obviously you’ve heard or read about Lance Stroll, Esteban Ocon and both Williams drivers Heat related issues. Whilst I thought I heard Fernando Alonso asking for a bucket of cold water to be poured upon Him during His pit stop being denied over His In-car radio. Since I recall Sky Sports F1 lead presenter Kroftie’, aka David Kroft musing about the Ice Bucket challenge…

 

While Fernando’s Aston Martin teammate Lance Stroll gets some sort of award for worst behaved F1 driver of the weekend! Beginning on Friday when forcibly shoving His trainer out of His way when being instructed for the mandatory F1 driver weighing, after Lance had failed to advance out of Q1’.

 

Then Lance was one of two F1 drivers helped into an ambulance following the race. Wit the Kuhnuck’ later stating that He’d been drifting in and out of consciousness during the race due to His blood pressure dropping due to the extreme Heat!

 

With the FIA investigating Stroll for breech of driver “Etiquette” at Qatar, and it’ll be interesting to see if anything comes of this?

 

Naturally, Stroll got off with a Slap upon His Hand after apologizing to the FIA, and was simply given a reprimand…

 

Alpine’s Esteban Ocon revealed following the race that He’d vomited inside His Helmet twice during the race due to the excessive Heat!

 

While the Williams duo of Alex Albon and Logan Sargeant suffered the worst! As Albon also needed to be assisted to an ambulance immediately following the race before being treated for excessive Heat exposure! While Sargeant retired during the race while suffering from Dehydration due partially to having fought Flu-like symptoms during the Grand Prix weekend.

 

And Mercedes George Russell was spotted driving down the straights? With His Hands off of His steering wheel while trying to fan any shread of air to cool His body! And the list goes on and on. As Verstappen even joked about anybody needing a wheelchair? While Piastri laid on the Green rooms floor with McLaren teammate Lando Norris all waiting to go back out into the Heat for the podium celebrations…

 

As Norris, Russell and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc All said that the race had hit the threshold for Heat and something needed to be done to ensure this not happening again!

 

Whilst many F1 Fans have called for Qatar to be scrapped. But we All know that Ain’t gona happen! Especially if the rumours of Liberty Media receiving $45 million per year for it’s ten years contract!

 

Since Liberty Media seems to agree with the former F1 Supremo Bernie Eccelstone about How the show must go On!

 

Oh Yeah, almost forgot. Max Verstappen won His third F1 World Championship in-a-row, Yawn! As can you say rinse, lather, repeat for the next two years? Thanks to engine development being “Frozen” for Red Bull’s benefit until the new E-E-E-lectricfied’ Power Units are introduced in 2026, Boring! 

Formula 1 Fandom: When will the Bubble Burst?

Probably no time soon. Although MaxiMillions’ making a mockery out of the Sport surely won’t Help…

 

Initially, I’d planned on attempting to scribble something “riveting” here upon No Fenders about a long forgotten American F1 constructor Justin-time’ for this year’s U.S. Grand Prix at Austin’s Circuit Of The Americas. (COTA)

 

But running out of time, being way behind on my F1 coverage and with another Grands Prix in Sin City still on the calendar. I’ll save that story for November, hopefully…

 

Over the Japanese Grand Prix weekend, I found my mind Ah-wonderin’ as always after first having sat thru Friday night’s second practice session ending at midnight Pacific. And then sitting down again to “watch”, Err listen to Saturday “night’s” third practice here upon the West coast.

 

Although I enjoyed ANT’, nee Anthony Davidson filling in for Martin billybob’ Brundle, along with my Numero Uno Sky Sports F1 Pitlane reporter Theodore, Not Lenny! Krabitz being on hand. I totally drifted off into Never Neverland when Ted started waxing on disjointedly about a scene in Monty Python’s Holy Grail, Huh? Before Ted said He needed to swap out His Headset’s batteries so He could hear Himself…

 

And having tuned out of Formula 1 so far this season, which is strange for Mwah. It wasn’t until Saturday when I realized when talking to Tacoma Bureau Chief Mary Ellen that it was twenty years ago when I attended the first of my two Japanese Grands Prix, circa 2003-04.

 

Knowing I’ve waxed on here upon No fenders many Moons ago about how attending the 2003 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka was so Karmic for Mwah, being a Ginormous Der Terminator’, nee Michael Schumacher Fan!

 

As it just so very well happened that I was present the day that Herr Schumacher finished eighth to claim His then record setting sixth Formula 1 World Championship! Having surpassed the mark of El Maestro’s, nee Juan Manuel Fangio’s tally of five F1 World Championships that had stood for some 46 years.

 

Yet I don’t know where that exact story is buried upon No Fenders, where instead I lamented about having previously attended the 2004 Japanese Grand Prix instead. When Formula 1 made History by holding Qualifying on Sunday morning for the first time ever.

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2010/10/suzuka-memories_09.html

 

Whilst it was funny re-reading the story (above) and learning how then Mark Handlebarz’ Webber was then leading the 2010 F1 championship with eventual first time Weldmeister ‘lyl syd viddle (Sebastian Vettel) languishing 21-points behind in fourth after Suzuka. Now that it’s a decade ago since Vettel’s final World Championship.

 

But I’d have to say that Suzuka now holds a permanent cloud over it for Mwah, with the ultimately fatal accident of Jules Bianchi upon slamming into the recovery crane vehicle in the late goings of the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix…

 

http://www.nofenders.net/2014/10/f1-bianchis-condition-critical-de.html

 

Yet for reasons unknown, as it’s strange how the mind works. I’d had the unusual Hankerin’ a few days prior to Suzuka for some tunes from an ‘Ol Rock Band of Wayback’ that I listened to growing up. With said band being Supertramp, as I suppose I’m taking the long way home here, Eh?

 

But it was a different song that kept playing repeatedly over my internal Jukebox instead…

 

“Who are these Men of lust, greed and glory

Rip off the Mask and let’s see”

 

As this phrase first struck me regarding the recent antics of Max Verstappen – who so audaciously told us if we didn’t like His utter dominance of the sport, then we weren’t Fans of Formula 1!

 

And then Maximus Hothead’ followed that up by emphatically telling us All to go Suck on a Egg! For which immediately made me retort with Kevn Magnussen’s infamous statement of Suck My Balls Max!

 

“Who are these Men of lust, greed and glory

Rip off the Mask and let’s see

 

But that’s  not right, oh, no, what’s the story?

But there’s you and  there’s me”

 

Yet instead, I simply cannot get over thinking that these men of lust, greed and glory are the ten F1 Team Bosses who are so adamantly opposed to allowing any new interlopers into their private Thiefdom!

 

Not to mention Liberty Media!

 

Now I’m not saying that Mikey A’ isn’t pursuing taking an eleventh team entry on Formula One’s grid just for the mere sport of it! Since naturally Michael Andretti wants to cash-in upon Formula One’s rising popularity.

 

But still, what are the current ten F1 Teams so afraid of? Other than their precious Share values dipping? For which I’d say is only a matter of time inevitably…

 

But I’m sure the Spin doctors will just be merrily focusing upon Herr Gunther instead, and America’s current F1 Team, Haas, even if it’s been nothing but a Back marker ever since enteringFormula 1 in 2016.

 

And before Y’all jump All over the thought of having two “Sub-par” American teams in F1. I’d argue how does the likes of Alfa Romeo, Scuderia AlphaTauri and Williams currently fit into that landscape?

 

With Alfa Romeo and AlphaTauri having amassed a total of three Grands Prix victories over some Gory 1,245 Grands Prix Starts! By my very rudimentary Ryth-Muh-tickin’ of All of their various guises, i.e.; Minardi, Toro Rosso, AlphaTauri, Sauber, BMW Sauber and Alfa Romeo between 1985 thru the just concluded Japanese Grand Prix. Whilst Williams has been a Shell of it’s former glory for how many years now?

 

Song lyrics from Supertramp’s 1974 Crime of the Century. 

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…