American team Andretti edge closer to joining F1 grid after receiving FIA approval – but they must still overcome opposition to expanding the series from rights holder Liberty Media and the existing teams

American team Andretti has moved one step closer to joining the Formula 1 grid after receiving approval from the FIA ​​to progress to the next stage of the process.

In January it was announced that Cadillac, a division of US car giant General Motors, and Andretti – owned by former F1 driver Michael Andretti, son of 1978 world champion Mario Andretti – had teamed up with the intention of entering the sport at a competitive level. .

After the initial call for expressions of interest and at the end of an extensive application process for four potential teams, the FIA ​​concluded that Andretti were the only candidates who met the strict criteria.

Applicants were assessed on sporting and technical ability, the team’s ability to secure and maintain sufficient funding to enable participation in the F1 Championship, and the team’s experience and workforce.

The FIA’s findings on Andretti Formula Racing LLC’s entry will now be passed on to Formula One Management (FOM) for commercial discussions.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: ‘Our aim, following rigorous due diligence during the application phase, was to only approve potential entries that met the set criteria and illustrated that they would add value to the sport.

“Andretti Formula Racing LLC was the only entity that met the selection criteria in all material respects.”

An F1 spokesperson said: ‘We note the FIA’s conclusions regarding the first and second phases of their process and will now make our own assessment of the merits of the remaining application.’

It is understood that if F1 decides against Andretti’s bid to join the championship, the process will not progress.

Rights holder Liberty Media and the existing teams are against expanding the series.