The Andretti family continues to fight for their entry into Formula 1. After receiving FIA approval, the FOM’s approval was lacking, communicated with an eleven-page document that can be summarized as “we don’t want to share the annual prize we are entitled to,” hidden behind sporting issues. Nevertheless, the Americans have not stopped investing in their project, building a cutting-edge infrastructure, seeking help from the US Congress, and appointing Pat Symonds as an exclusive external consultant.
However, all these efforts might not be enough, because from the last meeting with Liberty Media and Stefano Domenicali, which took place on the Saturday of the Miami Grand Prix, came an incredible message. Mario Andretti wanted to explain why he had called Congress (whose decisions would impact the operations of Liberty Media, being a US company). In response, however, Greg Maffei reportedly exclaimed: “Mario, I want to tell you that I will do everything in my power to ensure Michael does not enter Formula 1.”
“I couldn’t believe it. This was really disheartening because we were talking business. I didn’t think it was so personal. It was like a bullet to the heart. We are bringing something significant, and we are investing money, time, and passion. We have done everything that was required, what else do we need?” said the former driver to NBC News. Liberty Media later responded indirectly to these statements, asserting that Greg Maffei had only explained the reasons for stopping Andretti Global’s entry during that meeting.
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