Andretti hits throttle even harder in push for F1 entry

May 22 (GMM) Andretti is accelerating its push for a place in the Formula 1 paddock.

The Hill, a US political newspaper, reports that with congress already instigating an investigation into F1’s snub of the hopeful new team, another official probe may soon be underway.

Another bipartisan group of politicians – this time senators – have written a letter asking the Biden administration to look into whether F1’s decision violates anti-trust laws.

The letter said they have “substantial concerns” that Formula 1 stakeholders may have “colluded to exclude Andretti-Cadillac to insulate themselves from competition on the track and in the European car market”.

And on the very same day, Andretti announced that it has secured the services of well-known F1 engineer Pat Symonds, who will now take ‘gardening leave’ from his existing position as chief technical officer of Liberty Media-owned F1.

“Pat’s keen understanding of aerodynamics, vehicle dynamics and Formula 1 power units will be instrumental as we continue to build a competitive team,” Michael Andretti said.

“I believe his expertise has been pivotal in shaping the narrative of Formula 1 and his vote of confidence in joining our effort speaks volumes.”

Already at Andretti as technical director is Nick Chester, who knows Symonds well from their highly-successful time together in F1 at Renault.

Symonds, 70, will serve as ‘executive engineering consultant’.