Michael Andretti is to step back from his ownership duties at Andretti Global as part of a major management shake-up. Andretti, who has been seeking to try and obtain a spot on the F1 grid, is stepping back from his ownership role, but is to remain an ambassador and advisor with Group 1001 CEO Dan Towriss assuming control. Towriss originally joined forces with Andretti as a sponsor to Andretti driver Zach Veach in 2018, before expanding his role with the team after splitting from Veach, with Michael Andretti-Towriss forming Andretti Global in the hopes of becoming an 11th team on the F1 grid. Andretti responded to the FIA's 'expression of interest' process in early 2023 and was one of a number of candidate teams to lodge a bid, with only the Andretti package meeting the FIA's technical assessment. However, during commercial talks with F1, its bid was rejected, with the current 10 teams largely not in favour of adding an 11th, even if the Andretti bid would come with a new OEM in General Motors and Cadillac. Whilst Andretti's bid was rejected for 2026, F1 has left the door open for a possible future bid, provided GM can provide a works power unit, potentially for 2028. After reports in the American media, Andretti confirmed in a statement to RacingNews365 that Michael Andretti would be stepping back. "Michael’s goal has been to transition to a more strategic role with Andretti Global and focus less on the operational side of the race team," began the statement. "Michael and Dan Towriss have been working closely on developing this new structure, one which Michael is excited to see take shape under Dan’s guidance. "Michael remains engaged and will continue to serve as a strategic advisor and key ambassador. "We will have more to share in the coming weeks, after Michael and Dan have had an opportunity to speak to the team."
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