A life spent on the track, from boyhood to today, at the age of 84. We’re talking about Mario Andretti, Italian by birth and American by adoption, a motorsport legend who has raced everywhere: Formula 1, where he became world champion in 1978, NASCAR, Endurance, and IndyCar. A figure who has never truly hung up his helmet, because for him, motorsport is not just a passion or profession but a reason for living, encompassing the past, present, and future. This exclusive interview with Formula1.it explores his career, current events, and future challenges, as he was recently named “Director of Board” for Cadillac, a team preparing to enter F1 in 2026.
Mario Andretti: a motorsport legend, with experiences and triumphs in F1, IndyCar, and much more. The best moment of his career?
“I had a very long career, and I was lucky to conclude it unharmed. I’ve had many great moments, but those with Ferrari were the best, the most precious. My first love in the automotive world was Ferrari, from when I was still in Italy. As a child, I cheered for the Scuderia and Italian drivers. Then there’s the day I became F1 world champion in 1978 at Monza. Even though I remember it with sadness because I lost my teammate Ronnie Peterson. I’ve enjoyed great moments in IndyCar and endurance races. I’ve been fortunate to achieve more than I ever imagined.”
Among these moments is the 1978 F1 championship with the Lotus 79. Any anecdotes from that season?
“It was a car that suited me perfectly, and I got the most out of it. Honestly, with a reliable engine, I could have fought for the title in ’77, but I lost many races while leading due to Cosworth engine failures. In 1978, things went better—I finished many races and won the championship. Winning it at Monza was wonderful.”
A race where Ronnie Peterson suffered a serious accident. What do you remember?
“The accident wasn’t as severe as it’s often thought. Ronnie had injuries, but no one expected him to die. We were confident he would stay in the hospital but recover. Instead, he passed away the next day due to complications. I lost not only my teammate but also a great friend.”
It’s impossible not to talk about the Ferrari years. What was your relationship with Enzo Ferrari like?
“Extremely valuable. We spoke the same language, without intermediaries. Everything was direct, face-to-face. I remember our conversations over lunch at the Maranello restaurant. I also recall the tragic 1982 season when Ferrari lost Villeneuve and Pironi. He decided to call me for the final races—a great honor. The car was fast; after just one test at Fiorano, I was on pole at Monza. I only lost the race due to an engine issue near the end.”
Speaking of Ferrari, how do you see their prospects for 2024 and 2025 with Lewis Hamilton joining?
“Ferrari has been very competitive with Sainz and Leclerc. Hamilton’s arrival will make things even more interesting. I feel sorry for Sainz; he was sacrificed despite proving he could win and work for the team. But that’s racing. On the other hand, Hamilton has always shown interest in Ferrari, and it will be exciting to see how things play out. I believe Ferrari will be in a position to win in 2025: they’ll work on the car, understand what’s needed, and make improvements. They’ll progress, like everyone, but I think they’ll be ready to fight for victory.”
From 2026, Cadillac will join F1 as the eleventh team. It’s been a long journey…
“It’s been tough, but we’ve worked and pushed forward. We’re not starting from scratch; we’ve been working on this for two years, but the official approval gives us peace of mind and unlocks situations that were pending. We’ll be ready in 2026.”
The project has shifted from Andretti/Cadillac to Cadillac “in collaboration” with Andretti, and your son Michael had to step back. Why so much resistance?
“It’s a long story. There came a time when Michael decided to step aside—not the best moment of his career. In the end, everything worked out well, and he’s very happy with the result. Of course, the Andretti name won’t disappear; we’ll be involved in the program.”
Will the base be at the Andretti factory in Silverstone?
“Yes, that will be our home. We’ll also have a facility in the United States. These are complex but necessary arrangements, considering a commitment of at least ten years. It will be a great program, with Cadillac debuting in F1. We aim to do our best. I don’t want to talk about specific targets. Perhaps the 2026 regulations will help us; we’ll give it our all, as always.”
You’ve been named ‘Director of Board’ for Cadillac. What does this role entail?
“I’ll provide advice where and when possible. I’m particularly interested in driver selection and technical suggestions. I’ll do what I want, what I enjoy. I don’t need to be present every day, nor do I want to be. I’ll also have a home near the factory to follow some European GPs.”
A consultant role similar to Helmut Marko’s?
“Not really. My role remains unchanged from what I had in IndyCar alongside my son. I do what I can; I’ve never considered managing the team or handling business matters. Never.”
You’ve announced the choice of Ferrari’s power unit. Can you explain this decision? Is it purely technical/economic, or is there also emotional value for you?
“I’ve always preferred Ferrari’s PU. There’s no question—it’s great. Deep down, my heart is always red. For me, it’s also an emotional choice. It was an obligatory move since we’ll need to buy an engine at the start before Cadillac develops its own. We had options, and we chose Ferrari.”
Do you already have ideas about drivers?
“The plan is to always have at least one American driver. Everything can change, but we have ideas and know what we want. There’s time to see if we can pair an experienced driver with a young American.”
You’re working on the car and have hired technicians like Pat Symonds and Nick Chester. Will you continue recruiting staff from other teams?
“Absolutely. Some key technicians were waiting for F1’s official approval to give us an answer. We already have experienced staff, but now we have many more opportunities. We’ll also bring in young talent.”
You once promised to perform the first shakedown of Andretti’s F1 car. Will you do the same with Cadillac?
“Of course, I’ll take the first laps in the new car. I can’t wait to burn some rubber. I’ve been waiting for this moment for years: GM entering Formula 1. The fact they’re joining with a team started by us means a lot.”
Finally, who is Mario Andretti?
“A calm, serene person. My passion is motorsport, and I’m always present in the automotive world. And I surely will be until the very end.”
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