FIA President is optimistic that the FOM will approve Andretti
The FIA has approved Andretti's F1 entry application but a commercial deal with FOM is still needed. FIA president Ben Sulayem stays optimistic about approval while dismissing speculation of legal action if denied.
Andretti's F1 Entry Approved by FIA, Commercial Agreement with FOM Still Needed
The FIA has approved Andretti's application to join Formula 1 from 2025 at the earliest.
However, Andretti still needs to finalize a commercial agreement with F1's commercial rights holder, FOM, for its entry to be fully confirmed reports FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
He remains "very optimistic" that Andretti will get the green light from FOM.
Dismissing speculation of potential legal action if approval is denied, Ben Sulayem stressed constructive discussion will lead to the best outcome.
While FIA and FOM differ on Andretti's value-add, he reiterated their strong relationship.
Sources indicate current Concorde Agreements require new entrants to have a commercial deal in place with FOM before competing.
This precludes Andretti racing without one. Logistical dependence on FOM for track access also hinders unilateral entry.
Ben Sulayem affirmed FOM has flexibility in finalizing their analysis of Andretti's commercial viability.
The FIA will not rush or pressure their decision-making process.
Quoting Ben Sulayem, "I never interfere in whatever they're doing. And at the same time, I don't like anyone interfering with our jurisdictions also."
With Andretti unable to make the 2025 grid if FOM's decision extends into next year, the FIA will likely be open to a 2026 entry instead.
Securing the required FOM deal remains integral to Andretti's F1 hopes.
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