Andretti is the biggest name that is trying to get into Formula 1. However, it is experiencing extreme resistance from the existing 10 teams and Formula 1 Management (FOM) themselves. But, the one party that is on their side is the FIA. More specifically, the FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem. Recently, Andretti received a huge boost for their hopes when they got approval from the FIA. However, with their pre-agreement with Alpine expiring, they face the possibility of not having an engine supplier. However, Mohammed Ben Sulayem has ensured that this will not be the case.
Pre-Agreement with Alpine Expires
Andretti had a pre-agreement with Alpine to get their engines in Formula 1. However, their Vice-president of Motorsport, Bruno Famin, recently revealed that it has expired. He made it clear Alpine will not enter into a new deal until Formula 1 approves Andretti’s entry.
He said, “Everybody knows what the situation is. We need something, and we need a decision from F1 before resuming with Andretti.”
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Mohammed Ben Sulayem Promises a Lifeline
Mohammed Ben Sulayem has promised that Andretti will get an engine supplier in Formula 1. There is a regulation for this kind of a situation. Read it in his words himself.
For their entry into Formula 1, he says, “At the beginning, Andretti will have to agree on one of two engines.”
He then continues to explain his statement. “It works that, with the rules, nobody can say no to them. If all the teams say no, then the FIA has the power to go on and say, the least two [engine manufacturers] being used, then we put them in a draw, and we take one.”
“It’s not a secret, and I’m sure it is either Alpine or Honda, and one of them would win because that is the rules.”
Stiff Opposition
Many people in the Formula 1 world are not convinced. They think the rules do not guarantee an engine to incoming teams. However, the FIA and Mohammed Ben Sulayem are certain.
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One thing is for sure, Andretti will need all the support it can get from the FIA to enter the sport.
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