In a move that may cost F1 some of the popularity they have built in the USA, Formula 1 yesterday rejected Andretti/Cadillac’s bid to join the globetrotting circuit. The outrage among fans worldwide spread through the social media world.

The reason, couched in PR speak, is nothing but pure greed. The current teams don’t want to split their revenue another way. F1 doesn’t think the Andretti name will help them as a series. What?

From their statement:

“While the Andretti name carries some recognition for F1 fans, our research indicates that F1 would bring value to the Andretti brand rather than the other way around,”

Arguably one of the most recognizable names in racing around the world won’t add to the prestige of their series? 

The announcement also mentioned concerns about how competitive the team would be. Obviously, they don’t remember Minardi or Caterham or currently Haas and Williams.

It was so kind of F1 to invite Andretti to try again in four years.

Andretti’s response:

“Andretti Cadillac has reviewed the information Formula One Management Limited has shared and strongly disagree with its contents,” the statement read.

Andretti and Cadillac are two successful global motorsports organizations committed to placing a genuine American works team in F1, competing alongside the world’s best. We are proud of the significant progress we have already made on developing a highly competitive car and power unit with an experienced team behind it, and our work continues at pace.

“Andretti Cadillac would also like to acknowledge and thank the fans who have expressed their support.”

Meanwhile, the FIA, who wants Andretti in the series, implies that this is not over,

I see a lot of turmoil this F1 season. I probably will not go out of my way to watch a race this season. F1 is tone deaf, but they are not completely clueless.

I think this morning’s announcement of Lewis Hamilton going to Ferrari in 2025 was intentionally done as a distraction to the Andretti decision.