F1 News
Takeover of Alfa Romeo: Andretti seen at the Sauber factory
- GPblog.com
The Andretti name really seems to be returning to Formula 1. Michael Andretti was seen at the Alfa Romeo factory, which suggests that the deal between the two parties will be announced shortly.
Michael Andretti is the son of the legendary Mario Andretti who in 1978 became world champion in Formula 1, but also won the IndyCar championship (4 times) and won races in Nascar. Son Michael also drove in Formula 1 but was less successful than his father. Michael is however at the helm of the Andretti race team and that is a success in America.
Andretti to Formula 1
Now Andretti wants to move to Formula 1 and with the budget cap and new regulations for 2022, this seems like a good time to step in. Sauber might be able to be bought, although it is said that this would cost around $350 million. For Andretti, however, this does not seem to be a stumbling block.
Formulapassion Michael has been spotted at the Sauber factory in Hinwill. Alfa Romeo can be admired on the car since 2018, but the team itself is still the old Sauber. So now that seems to be sold for real, which means that a big name will disappear from the sport. In its place, however, will be another historic name.
American driver
The acquisition of Andretti could also cause a twist in the driver market. Valtteri Bottas is fixed for 2022, but the other seat is still available. Guanyu Zhou was mentioned as a possible successor to Antonio Giovinazzi, but is the Chinese bag of cash still needed with the arrival of Andretti? The new owners might prefer an American driver in the car, but with the super license system, it will be difficult to get Colton Herta in.