Is Michael Andretti ready to give up his operational shares in Andretti Global and, therefore, his F1 ambitions? According to reports from the United States (gathered by Sportico), the former driver and owner of one of the largest motorsport teams in the U.S. might be prepared to step down from his operational role. If the deal is confirmed, his partner Dan Towriss could take over.
It’s a shock in the United States: Andretti Global, the motorsport organization founded by Michael Andretti and managed by Rob Edwards, might soon change ownership. Some reports – still neither confirmed nor denied – suggest that Michael Andretti is on the verge of selling his shares in the company, thus stepping away from his operational role.
This news comes as a surprise, especially after the significant effort Andretti has made to bring the team into Formula 1. An effort that has yet to be rewarded, despite the almost immediate approval from the FIA. Liberty Media and FOM still oppose the move, fearing that the addition of an eleventh team could disrupt the financial balance of the series.
The partnership with Cadillac, which would provide engines starting from 2027 or 2028, wasn’t enough: according to the rights holders of the Circus, Andretti Global’s request would only be reconsidered when General Motors’ Power Units were ready. This is seen as a way not to alienate the American manufacturer, which remains highly coveted by Formula 1.
It is unclear how the potential sale of Michael Andretti’s shares might affect the team’s entry onto the grid. A few months ago, the U.S. team reiterated its serious intentions regarding Formula 1, while the Department of Justice launched an antitrust investigation into Liberty Media to determine whether their rejection of Andretti was legal.
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