Andretti Autosport is set to launch a bid to join the Formula 1 grid, with the backing of US car manufacturer General Motors, who will bring the Cadillac brand to the sport. The US-based team has long harboured hopes of joining Grand Prix racing, but has thus far been unable to secure a berth on the grid to add an 11th team. However, earlier this week, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem signalled his intention to open up the process to prospective new teams, with Andretti - run by former IndyCar and F1 driver Michael - becoming the first to formally signal their intentions to join. In what is planned to be a fully US-based operation, Andretti Autosport will be backed by General Motors - one of the world's largest car makers - who have never entered F1 before, unlike major competitors Ford and Chrysler. The Cadillac name will be expanding their current motor racing portfolio beyond their current entries into the WEC and IMSA endurance racing categories.
In a joint-announcement with General Motors, Andretti Autosport Chairman and CEO Michael Andretti reiterated the American team's desire to add value to the sport. "It's been well documented that Andretti Global has a desire to enter the Formula One World Championship," Andretti commented to media, including RacingNews365.com . "So at this point, I'd like to thank the FIA and President Mohammed for their recent interest in exploring an Expression of Interest process. Mohammed is a real racer, and has a true passion for the sport. "I appreciate his transparency and willingness to be open to this process. Today, I'm very, very excited to announce that Andretti Global has partnered with General Motors to pursue an Expression of Interest. “I'm really proud to be able to be part of the fellow American company in this pursuit of the opportunity to join Formula One. “GM and Andretti both have a strong history in racing, and I believe that together we have a lot to offer. “I like to thank [GM President] Mark Reuss and the entire GM team for this opportunity for what I believe is going to be an amazing pairing.”
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