Mario Andretti reveals ideal F1 driver line-up for Andretti Global
Fernando Alonso gives a thumbs-up on the podium next to former World Champion, Mario Andretti. Austin November 2012.
Mario Andretti has said Fernando Alonso would be a “tremendous” acquisition for Andretti Global if the team is able to secure a Formula 1 entry, and Colton Herta would have a “99%” chance of being in the team as well.
Andretti Global recently opened its new global headquarters in Indiana, which is due to house all of its motorsport operations – including a possible Formula 1 team.
Michael Andretti, son of the 1978 World Champion, has been lobbying Formula 1 about adding another team to the grid, though he has been met with opposition from several of the existing teams – who are reluctant to allow an extra constructor to compete in the sport.
He has also spoken previously about looking at buying out Haas, Sauber and AlphaTauri in search of putting another American team on the grid in the future, and holds hopes about a “nice Christmas present” of seeing an Andretti Global entry confirmed for the future.
With the subject of a family team being back in the news once again, motorsport legend Mario was asked about who he would like to drive for them, given the chance.
Alonso’s name was brought up, though the double World Champion’s multi-year deal with Aston Martin is yet to begin, but Andretti’s aim to bring an American to the Formula 1 grid would likely come through current IndyCar driver Herta – who missed out on an AlphaTauri seat for 2023 after not meeting the requirements for an FIA Super Licence.
“It’s very possible, of course,” Andretti said when asked if Alonso is one of the drivers under consideration for the team, speaking on a Twitch stream with SoyMotor.com.
“His experience is immeasurable and it would be a tremendous thing for us, so we’re going to look at it. I think he wants to keep racing and he’s still in his prime.
“One of the drivers who 99% would be in the team is Colton Herta, but he would need someone with more experience alongside him.
“This would make the team much more complete and that is what is being discussed right now as part of the plan.
“The main goal would be to have a very experienced driver alongside a new talent, and to have at least one American driver in the team.”
Read more: Mercedes fire up W14 for the first time as 2023 challenger comes to life
