Andretti working behind the scenes: 'Engine deal is already done'

Mario Andretti tells us that son Michael is in an advanced stage in creating his new team. An engine deal is said to be ready and there is also a plan for a brand new factory in Indianapolis.

On February 18, news came out that Michael Andretti hoped to join Formula 1 in 2024 with a brand new team: Andretti Global. Father Mario explained in an interview with Indystar.com that his son has long been working on plans to set up his own team. For example, the engines for the cars have already been arranged and an important partner has also been appointed.

Which engine supplier is involved, Andretti does not want to tell yet. Currently Mercedes is at its maximum number of customers, so Ferrari, Red Bull Racing and Renault remain. Andretti's partner would be Dan Towtriss, the CEO of Group 1001. Group 1001 is an Indiana-based insurance company.

Andretti is told that the team will operate from both Indianapolis and the United Kingdom. The Indianapolis plant will be built near the home of Andretti's IndyCar team. After Haas, Andretti Global would become the second American team.

Father Mario is confident in his son's plan: "This isn’t just on a whim or a bucket list thing. This is for real. Michael, once he sets his sights on something, he’s relentless." For now, it's just a matter of waiting, as the FIA is not actively looking for new F1 teams.