The controversy surrounding the exclusive nature of Formula One’s private members club has resurfaced during this week’s Monaco Grand Prix. Senior paddock figures are insisting that new entrants can only join if they buy an existing team, as Audi has done.
Formula One is currently experiencing a boom, with increased revenues from higher race hosting fees, more races, and significant interest from US corporate sponsors. Recently, McLaren’s CEO claimed that all ten teams are now valued at over $1 billion. However, not all teams are thriving. Alpine’s five-year plan to compete at the front has failed, leading to a shakeup of senior personnel. Haas F1 is a shadow of its former self, and Williams is struggling to modernize its facilities.
During the Miami Grand Prix, Liberty Media’s CEO, Greg Maffei, reportedly told motorsports legend Mario Andretti that he would do everything possible to block Andretti’s entry into F1. Mario recounted, ‘Mr. Maffei broke in the conversation and said: ‘Mario, I want to tell you that I will do everything in my power to see that Michael never enters Formula 1.’’ Despite the FIA granting Andretti’s application to join F1, Liberty Media has put up roadblocks, suggesting they may reconsider in 2028 when Cadillac has its own F1 power unit. Nevertheless, Andretti F1 has opened a facility at Silverstone with 80 staff in preparation for joining the competition.
Christian Horner of Red Bull commented on the situation, expressing support for Andretti’s racing heritage and the potential of Cadillac joining F1. He noted that Liberty Media might review their stance in 2028 if Cadillac develops its own engine. Sauber’s Alessandro Alunni Bravi and Alpine’s Bruno Famin echoed Horner’s sentiments, suggesting that buying an existing team is the best path for Andretti.
Alpine appears to be the most realistic option for Andretti, given that Renault, its owner, might reconsider their investment. The French company has had success as an engine supplier in the past, but underinvestment has left Alpine lagging behind. The U.S. Justice Department’s investigation into F1’s anti-competitive practices could result in significant penalties, potentially even banning F1 from competing in the U.S.
Christian Horner acknowledged F1’s status as a private members club, attributing its stability and financial health to Liberty Media’s business model. He warned that inflating team valuations might deter new entrants and suggested that Andretti should wait rather than overpay for a struggling team like Alpine. Reality may catch up with teams like Haas F1 and Alpine if they fail to keep up with the competition’s investments.
In other news, Red Bull Racing Technical Director Pierre Wache has reaffirmed his commitment to the team amidst rumors of his potential move to Ferrari. This statement follows the decision of legendary car designer Adrian Newey to leave Red Bull at the start of 2025, which had sparked speculation about other key personnel leaving as well.
Andretti’s path to joining Formula One remains fraught with challenges, from internal resistance within F1’s established teams to potential legal battles. As the sport continues to evolve, the entry of new teams like Andretti could reshape the landscape, but only time will tell how these dynamics will play out.
