Michael and Mario Andretti Discuss Andretti Global’s and Cadillac’s Ambitious Formula One Plans

[Music playing]

Bruce Martin:

INDYCAR fans, it's time to start your engines. Welcome to Pit Pass Indy, a production of Evergreen Podcasts. I'm your host, Bruce Martin, a journalist who regularly covers the NTT INDYCAR Series.

Our goal at Pit Pass Indy is to give racing fans an insider's view of the exciting world of the NTT INDYCAR Series in a fast-paced podcast, featuring interviews with the biggest names in the sport.

I bring nearly 40 years of experience covering INDYCAR and NASCAR, working for such media brands as nbcsports.com, si.com, ESPN Sports Ticker, Sports Illustrated, Autoweek and Speed Sport.So, let's drop the green flag on this episode of Pit Pass Indy.

Welcome to this week's edition of Pit Pass Indy as we enter our third season in giving INDYCAR fans the latest news and interviews with the major players in the NTT INDYCAR Series.

The biggest news in racing so far in 2023 was the announcement on January 5th that Andretti Global has joined forces with General Motors and Cadillac in a bid to join the Formula 1 World Championship.

GM is one of the largest automotive manufacturers in the world, and this would be the first time a General Motors brand has competed in Formula 1.

Cadillac is America's iconic luxury brand and would be a great fit to the high profile upscale audience in Formula 1.

Despite the big announcement made by Andretti Global CEO, Michael Andretti and General Motors President, Mark Reuss, there are many Formula 1 team principles that are creating a variety of obstacles for this entry to gain approval.

That will be the subject of this special edition of Pit Pass Indy as we have exclusive interviews with Michael Andretti, and later in the show, his father, 1971 Formula 1 World Champion, Mario Andretti. I caught up with both Andrettis in separate interviews for this week's special Formula 1 Edition of Pit Pass Indy.

Here's my exclusive interview with Michael Andretti as he answers a variety of questions for Pit Pass Indy.

Joining us now on Pit Pass Indy is a real legend in racing. It's Michael Andretti, one of the leading team owners in INDYCAR who made a big announcement last week with Andretti Global joining forces with General Motors to continue a bid for a Formula 1 team.

Michael, it seems like the combination of General Motors and Andretti should be enough to get you to the starting grid for Formula 1, but I know that there's always a bit of a challenge in dealing with F1. Where do things stand at the moment?

Michael Andretti:

Well, what started with our announcement is, we've been working on this for quite a while, but when the president of the FIA, Mohammed, made his tweet that he was looking to put out an expression of interest, then that's when we decided we're going to make our announcement.

Because that's the first step is that, and once they do make the expression of interest, then we're in competition with other teams and then we're on our way, because that means they're going to do an extra team. So, we were very, very excited when we saw that. And then so, it all came together really nicely. So, we're very excited.

We feel like we check all the boxes, like I've said. The only box that we didn't have checked when we were working on our entry was that we didn't have an OEM behind us, but now, we have GM and Cadillac, which is so very exciting, and I know they're very excited about it. And they're going toreally bring a lot to the party to help us get a race car on track.

So, we're very bullish at this moment. There's still a long way to go. We understand and we're willing to follow every procedure that needs to be done by the FIA. But we feel like we are in a good position for it.

And I don't know what it's going to say. I don't know if they're going to add just one team or more than one team, too. I mean, so we'll see. But I don't know if we're actually in competition with another team or not.

But the whole idea is they're going to be putting that out and once they put the expression of interest out, then that shows that we're on our way to getting at least one team on the track.

Bruce Martin:

The combined horsepower of the Andretti name along with General Motors, one of the largest auto manufacturers in the world, it would seem like this would be a slam dunk. So, in many ways, are you a little bit surprised by the fact that some of the current principles in Formula 1 are still trying to move the goalpost, as they say.

Michael Andretti:

No, I'm not. I mean, that's the thing, in Formula 1, the owners, they look out for themselves and notwhat's best for the series. And I think that's the difference between President Mohammed's position and the team owner's position. They're looking out for the future of the sport.

And so, I think Mohammed gets it. He's a racer and he understands that the series needs to have at least one or two more teams. And so, in the end, it is an FIA Championship, and so they are holding most of the cards to be able to get the expression of interest going.

So, obviously, there's going to be things that we have to work out with F1 as well. We've talked a lot with Stefano and talking to him, he seems to be in favor. So, hopefully, there won't be any problems there. But like I said, the first thing is we got to go and make sure we check every box for the FIA to be able to get in the championship.

Bruce Martin:

Have you had much discussion with Liberty Media? I would think that a United States based company that owns Formula 1 would want to have the Andretti name in Formula 1.

Michael Andretti:

Well, that's actually Stefano. When I talked about Domenicali, he represents Liberty on that. So, yeah, we've been talking. So, he was very happy when we told him about Cadillac.

Bruce Martin:

Well, to bring the Cadillac name into the pinnacle of International Motorsports, how valuable will that be for not only yourself, but also the Cadillac brand?

Michael Andretti:

IM is going to be huge all the way around. I think it's going to be huge for Formula 1 as well, because Formula 1 is growing so much in the US and not having a US manufacturer, I think is not a good thing.

And now, to be able to announce the biggest U.S. manufacturer is entering Formula 1, which by the way, they've never been in Formula 1. So, I think that says that's a big thing for Formula 1 to advertise that. So, I think it's very big in that way.

And also, to have an all-American team, we're going to have American manufacturer with American team with American drivers. So, I think that's a powerful thing for them to go and sell Formula 1 in the U.S.

Bruce Martin:

Just reading up and doing some research on things that have happened. Since your announcement, there seems to be a conception out there that Cadillac was simply going to badge the engine. But having been on the Zoom call when you made the announcement, it sounded like General Motors was all in with their technology and their engineering expertise. So, how do you address that particular rumor?

Michael Andretti:

It's a rumor, it's not truth. Cadillac's going to be very much involved in manufacturing of the car, and it's going to have … obviously, when we get in, if we get in 25, we're not going to have — there's no new engine yet. So, we have to go with a current engine that's in the Formula right now.

But for 26, there's different things that you can do. And one thing is doing a joint deal with another manufacturer, which then, will very much not be a badged engine. And because there will be IP from Cadillac in that engine, so you can't say that Cadillac's not part of that engine.

Bruce Martin:

Well, obviously, with the investment that they're going to make, it's very big for the company to go out there and showcase their technology and everything. But in many ways, I know that you said you're not surprised when you look at the F1 paddock that there has been pushback, but why are they so concerned about the Andretti name returning to Formula 1?

Michael Andretti:

It's all about money. It's all about money. First, one thing is, they think they're going to get diluted 1/10th of their prize money. But I think the other thing is (where they're being very greedy), they think, “Well, we're going to take all the American sponsors as well.”

And so, I think it's all about greed and it's all about looking at themselves and not looking at what's best for the overall of the series.

Bruce Martin:

Now, it struck me that one of your biggest assets was your friend McLaren, CEO, Zak Brown, who's been very supportive of your efforts to get a team in Formula 1. There seems to be some social media reports today that McLaren wasn't for it.

Michael Andretti:

What? No, that’s not true.

Bruce Martin:

I would be surprised at that. So, I mean-

Michael Andretti:

I've been texting back and forth with Zak today. I mean, we talk all the time, and it's like, no, no, no. He wants to do whatever he can to help us get there. And also, Alpine's been very good about it as well. So, there's two good allies that we have.

Bruce Martin:

Well, that's why I wanted to give you an opportunity to address that because I would find that unfathomable as much investment as Zak has made in helping you and some of your drivers get Formula 1 opportunities, that he wouldn't be supportive of that, so-

Michael Andretti:

No, no, he's been very supportive.

Bruce Martin:

And how valuable has that support been?

Michael Andretti:

Yeah, it helps, it all helps, it doesn't hurt. I mean, the owners can express their opinion, but in the end,they don't make that decision. In the old concord agreement, there used to have to be a majority. But I think in the new one, I think legally, they don't have a right.

Bruce Martin:

But the fact that he's been so helpful in helping you do this, and I know that he's been partners with you in other racing ventures. So, to have him to be able to be an ally, how important is that for this effort?

Michael Andretti:

He's been a great friend and ally. I mean, he's been there to help, like giving me advice or if I have a question, he is there to help. So, yeah, I consider Zak a very good friend, and a guy that we help each other. I've been helping him, helped him a lot on this side when they were coming INDYCAR racing as well. So, it's a friendship that I think has been able to work both ways.

Bruce Martin:

So, the process to be able to get on the grid by 2025, you're building a new shop up in Fishers, Indiana, which is on the northeast corner of Indianapolis. Ground just broke for that recently, so that's probably not going to be completed until later this year. But how do you describe just how important that shop is going to be in housing all of your racing interest?

Michael Andretti:

Oh, it's going to be amazing. It's going to be one of the most advanced racing facilities in the world. And I don't think it's ever been done where every series that we're going to be racing, so many different series in the world, is housed under one building. So, I'd say it's a very, very exciting project. And I can't wait for it to get done, for sure. But it's going to be a big deal for our future, for sure.

Bruce Martin:

So, when did the idea develop in your mind that you wanted to be a Formula 1 team owner?

Michael Andretti:

I want to say probably five, six years ago. I think it was about then, maybe even longer now. Yeah, maybe 2016 or so, around then. It just felt like we're ready to go and make that next step for our brand and things like that.

So, that's when I first started searching for somebody who gets behind us. Because, obviously, you need huge, huge money to support it. So, we started looking way back then.

Bruce Martin:

We'll be right back to Pit Pass Indy after this short break.

[Music playing]

And now, here's the rest of my exclusive interview with Michael Andretti for Pit Pass Indy.

2023 will be the 20th anniversary of Andretti Autosport, which back then was Andretti Green Racing. Prior to that, you purchased what was Team Green.

So, in 20 years, you've been able to reach this point. Does that surprise you that you've been able to achieve as much as you have in that 20-year period?

Michael Andretti:

Yeah. I mean, if you were to ask me back in 2003 that we'd be where we are and where we're headed, I mean, I would've laughed in your face, to be honest with you. So, it's just amazing and exciting, and it's like a dream come true for all the way it's coming about. So, I get to pinch myself every day.

Bruce Martin:

And as far though as the process, if you were able to get a car onto the Formula 1 grid for 2025, obviously, as you indicated during the announcement last week, Colton Herta is the leader in Clubhouse for an American driver in that seat. Do you have sponsorships lined up that are ready to jump on once you get the go ahead?

Michael Andretti:

No, not yet. No, no, no. We haven't gone there yet.

Bruce Martin:

And how valuable has Project 1001 been in this whole process? Because they've been very important in helping you generate the capital that's needed to be able to make such an investment?

Michael Andretti:

Oh, without them, it wouldn't be happening. They're the whole backbone of the whole thing. And it's been a fun project with them because they're just such great people. So, we just have really enjoyed each other's company working through this and getting to this point.

So, it was just very lucky to be in this situation and blessed to have friends like them that are just as excited about the program as I am. And like I said, it's been a dream.

Bruce Martin:

And how difficult has it been to maybe stay focused and block out the noise? Because it seems like with Formula 1, there's always outside noise.

Michael Andretti:

Exactly right. And that's what it is, it's noise. You just got to stay focused on your job and just go ahead and not listen to all the naysayers and things like that. You actually use the naysayers as motivation. So, it's always fun to shut them up.

Bruce Martin:

And also, to look at a different direction, this year, the Andretti name will return to the Rolex 24 in your new environment with Wayne Taylor Racing. How exciting is that going to be?

Michael Andretti:

Very, very exciting. It's a great team that they have there, and I think the partnership that we have, we're going to be able to really work together and make it even better. And so, we're very excited about it.

It was no secret that I was saying I want to get into sports car racing. And I mean, I don't think we can do it with any better team than them. And it's been great.

Bruce Martin:

And how does it feel to one up Team Penske? Because if you get the F1 team, truth, Penske racing at one time had a Formula 1 program, but they don't anymore. But you'll have one more key ingredient. They'll have a NASCAR team, but you'll have a Formula 1 team. So, what's that going to be like? Compare what Roger's team's got to what Andretti Autosport has?

Michael Andretti:

Well, Roger's just been in mainstay in auto racing for 50, 60 years. I mean, anytime you can do anything to be at the same level as Roger, you've done something right. So, it's an honor to be mentioned in that company.

So, yeah, I mean, I think it's so cool. I mean, that's not our motivation, is to try to do more than Roger. It's just the way it's worked out. But in the end, I mean, Roger has done it all. He’s been in Formula 1, he’s been in NASCAR, he’s been in Sports Cars, he's been everywhere as well.

So, it's not like we're trying to emulate and we're just doing our own thing. And it just so happens that at the moment we might have some more than what he has. We just, at that point, now, puts pressure in, if we want to do that, we got to make sure we get in NASCAR a few years.

Bruce Martin:

So, what is your interest in NASCAR? A couple of years ago, or probably 10 or 15 years ago, you were making a run at a Dodge team in NASCAR and that didn't happen. So, what is your interest in NASCAR?

Michael Andretti:

Oh, we're very much looking at it and monitoring it. We're looking at some situations that hopefully,in a couple years, we see ourselves hopefully, being there.

Bruce Martin:

And just making it to the Formula 1 grid will be an accomplishment, but in many ways, that'll just be the beginning.

Michael Andretti:

Yep.

Bruce Martin:

So, how will you look at that?

Michael Andretti:

Well, I mean, we're not going into this just saying, “Oh, we want to just check the boxes just to get into Formula 1.” No, we're coming in in a serious way. Down the road, we know it's going to take a long time to get there, but eventually, we want to be racing the top teams in Formula 1.

And with the backing that I have and the resources that we're going to have with everything we're doing, I just think there's no reason why eventually, we can't get there.

And so, our end goal is to be five, six years down the road, be competing for World Championship. I mean, that's why we're doing it. We're not just doing it to be there. Otherwise, who cares about that?

When we get there, we want to be competing, we want to be competitive. And you know you're racing the best in the world, so the effort that you got to put in. We're not stupid. We're not underestimating that.

And we're not underestimating that, oh, it's going to happen right away. No, it's not. It's going to be a long building process. But we feel that we have a good plan to eventually get us there.

Bruce Martin:

Now, switching gears to the INDYCAR program, which is your centerpiece program at the moment, as you look at INDYCAR 2023, there's some exciting things out there. The 100 Days to Indydocuseries is going to be aired on The CW and many in INDYCAR hope that'll open the door to younger fans to be able to start paying attention to INDYCAR.

What are your thoughts on that docuseries, especially being able to land it on an over the air network, such as The CW?

Michael Andretti:

I am cautiously optimistic. I hope it works. I mean, I don't know exactly how it's going to be done. I don't have all the details, but anytime you can get on a network and hopefully, have a good story to tell, I hope it generates that sort of interest. But I don't think anybody thought that the Netflix series in F1 would do what it did.

So, it's still going to have to come down to I'm hoping they can catch all the drama and stuff like they do in F1 because that's what makes the story and that's what makes people want to watch the next week.

So, hopefully, they'll be able to pull off because if they do, I think it'll be great for the series. And because I believe still, that when it comes to the actual racing product on the racetrack, INDYCAR is the best product.

Bruce Martin:

Your team's going to be a little bit younger this year. Of course, you've got Colton Herta returning, but you also bring Kyle Kirkwood back into the fold. And he showed flashes of brilliance last year when he was at Andretti Autosport. He drove for you in what is now known as the Indy NXT Series.

Are we going to see some stuff out of Kyle Kirkwood that may surprise a few fans this year?

Michael Andretti:

We believe so. We believe in him. He did a fantastic job for us in the NXT Series. And he also, when he tested for us, did a very good job. So, we have high expectations for Kyle. We think he's going tobe a major player and a big part of the future of INDYCAR. And so, yeah, we're making big investments in him.

Bruce Martin:

You're also bringing Jamie Chadwick over to the Indy NXT Series. How long will it be until the American fans really gravitate and see what she can do behind the wheel of a race car?

Michael Andretti:

Hopefully, it won't take long. I think she's got a great personality and she's quick. I think the last test, she was second quick and so, she's starting to get ahold of it. It's the highest horsepower car she's ever driven. And so, she still has a lot that she has to get used to and learn the racetracks and things like that.

But I think our initial reading on her and feeling with her is that she's the real deal. And hopefully,she'll be in a bunch of podiums this year.

Bruce Martin:

And just looking at the big picture of INDYCAR, the car count on the starting grid is very impressive. It's getting up around 28 cars for every race. But it won't be a 2.4-liter engine that begins competition in 2024, it'll be the 2.2. Although there will be the hybrid assist component will be part of that package. What are your thoughts on that?

Michael Andretti:

Thank God, because did we really need a different engine. I mean, nobody knows about it. It's just millions and millions of dollars were going to be spent for what? So, I think it was the smartest move that INDYCAR could make.

And I think in the end, Honda and Chevrolet were for it because they didn't have to go out and spend all this money on a new engine that really wasn't going to move the dial anywhere for having anybody watch the series any more than they are now.

Bruce Martin:

And then how do you feel about the need or lack thereof, possibly of a new car? It's the 2012 DallaraDW012, has been used since 2012. But in very many different iterations, it doesn't even look like the same car.

Michael Andretti:

It's not. And when it comes down to it, does anybody … I mean, it's funny. We'll take an old show car from 2005 at an event, and people think it's still the real race car.

I mean, in the end, the average person watching the race doesn't really know any difference. And so, is there a reason why the series would have to, between all the owners, put up another 20 million to have another car out there? I'm not sure, because I don't think that's going to move the needle as well.

Bruce Martin:

And your father, Mario Andretti said he wants to do the first burnout in an Andretti Global Cadillac Formula 1 car. Will you give him that opportunity?

Michael Andretti:

I did not hear that. I don't know. We will have to talk about that.

Bruce Martin:

And finally, wrapping up with Michael Andretti. At 60-years-old, a lot of people are thinking about what they'll do when their career is over, but you just seem to be kicking it in the high gear. Have you found the Fountain of Youth similar to what your father has?

Michael Andretti:

I don't know. I mean, I think it's important to always have goals and have things pushing you, because if you don't have a reason to get up in the morning, then things start to fall apart. But it's exciting to always have something new and a new challenge.

And I'm very happy. We hopefully, have a good 15, 20 years left to put that sort of effort into this team, because in the end, the team's become my life.

So, yeah, I'm very, very lucky to be in this situation. I had no idea what I was going to do beyond my driving years, and I've been very fortunate to have something like the race team to give me challenges to wake up in the morning.

Bruce Martin:

Michael Andretti, CEO of both Andretti Global and Andretti Autosport. Good luck in your effort to get an Andretti Formula 1 team together with Cadillac. And also, good luck this season in the NTT INDYCAR Series, and at the end of this month in the Rolex 24 at Daytona. And thank you for joining us today on Pit Pass Indy.

Michael Andretti:

Thank you, Bruce.

Bruce Martin:

Getting the Andretti name back on the Formula 1 starting grid is very important to our next guest. It's racing legend, Mario Andretti. The only man in racing history to win the Indianapolis 500, the Daytona 500, and the Formula 1 World Championship in his legendary racing career.

Mario Andretti won the Indianapolis 500 in 1969, the Daytona 500 in 1967, and the Formula 1 World Championship in 1978.

I caught up with the father of Michael Andretti in this exclusive interview for Pit Pass Indy.

Joining us now, on Pit Pass Indy is a true racing legend. It is Mario Andretti, the 1969 Indianapolis 500 winner, the multiple time CART IndyCar National Champion, and the 1978 Formula 1 World Champion.

Mario, today, we're going to talk about Formula 1 more than we're going to talk about INDYCARbecause of the big news that came out last week when Andretti Global announced that it had formed a partnership with General Motors and the Cadillac brand to continue its bid for a team in Formula 1.

Mario, when you connect the name Andretti with one of the world's largest automotive manufacturers like General Motors, this has to be enough to get this bid to the finish line in Formula 1.

Mario Andretti:

Well, obviously, Bruce, thanks for having me on. I certainly hope so because all along, they've asked of us to bring something meaningful to the table. And I don't think we can do any better than this, quite honestly.

I mean, General Motors is giant in the auto industry, as we all know. And that they have throughout their timing in business of 112 some years, they've been involved in motor sports, but they've never been involved in Formula 1. So, this is quite a historic event, and this speaks volumes for wanting to be there.

Again, just to have them on our side and the strength of that and the commitment, I mean, I would like to think it should be embraced by the Formula 1 contingent because we all know that the bread and butter for all of our series are always manufacturers. And to have the likes of General Motors with the Cadillac brand wanting to be part of Formula 1, I think should be as positive as it can be.

Bruce Martin:

I probably should have rephrased the premise about getting to the finish line of the bid for Formula 1. It's more like getting to the green flag of the Formula 1 grid.

But when you look at a name like Cadillac, and you look at the other engine manufacturers that are involved in Formula 1, like Ferrari, like Mercedes-Benz, like a lot of the other great automotive brands that compete in Formula 1, Cadillac's image has to fit right in because it's a high-performance luxury brand, which is exactly the type of audience that Formula 1 attracts.

Mario Andretti:

That's exactly right. I think that those are the reasons why they want to be involved. Obviously, I think it's got to be the appeal to the top level. And now, they want to be a serious player. And again, to me,that's got to be as welcomed as anything. We're over the moon about this. This brought in a lot of energy into all of us. And I don't know when I've been happier personally.

Bruce Martin:

How big of an advocate has FIA president, Mohammed Ben Suleman?

Mario Andretti:

Ben Sulayem. Yes.

Bruce Martin:

Sulayem Ben, to this effort?

Mario Andretti:

He’s been fantastic. Totally, he understood our goal from the beginning in so many ways. He encouraged us by not discouraging us. And he was ready to listen to everything that we are trying to bring to the party, if you will.

And every step along the way, he likes to be proactive in so many ways, but also, he likes to see the sport grow. I think the FIA is in good hands with a president like that. He and I, when we speak, we speak racer to racer. I love that. He truly loves the sport.

And again, he's been absolutely wonderful with us, solid in every way. And also, very direct is what is important for us to bring to the table. So, again, we are all on the same page there.

Bruce Martin:

To have him in your corner is very important. Also, have the automotive horsepower of General Motors is very important. But yet, even if approved, it's probably going to be 2025 or 2026 before there's an entry on the grid. And if you could just maybe describe to our listeners why that process would take so long.

Mario Andretti:

Well, that's the part that I totally don't understand about the process in the sense why it should take too long once you have the ingredients in place. But that's not for us to be able to make that decision. We have to go by whatever rules are in place, protocol, and so forth.

But I can tell you, we already started the machine, the effort is in motion. It's been in motion evenwhen a lot of things were not really already committed. So, once we get the green light, we're not going to be starting from zero.

So, as far as when we will have a car on the grid, we don't know. We are going to try as hard as we can, to be as soon as very possible, there's going to be an absolute sense of urgency throughout. And that's going to be our motives. That's the way we're going to operate.

Bruce Martin:

And while this team is being planned, and while you're waiting to hear back whether the bid gets approved, there's a new race shop being built that's going to house all of the Andretti Global racing operations up on the northeast corner of Indianapolis in Fishers, Indiana. That's another exciting project.

And Michael has said, when that's finished, it'll be as spectacular a shop as any team has in Formula 1. So, how important will that be?

Mario Andretti:

Well, what that shows is long-term commitment to the sport. And that's what you want to see. And that's what we're trying to present. And okay, so, you're going to have a headquarters there, but you're going to have an operation in the UK to be able to be right there in Europe to make it as practical as possible.

So, again, we know where we're going. The plan is in place, and the commitment is in place. So, we're just waiting for the formal, “Let's go.”

Bruce Martin:

When your son was following in your racing footsteps, did you ever dream that he would achieve this type of level in racing to where he would be a team owner, not only in INDYCAR, but also in Sports Cars and Formula 1?

Mario Andretti:

Well, it's impossible to formulate the future sometimes. I could have never thought that the sport could have been as good to me as it was when I was still dreaming about even beginning to be a driver.

So, yeah, a lot of things happen and they're out of passion and desire and ambition. And that's why I'm so proud of Michael and his partners for showing the resolve and being relentless in this pursuit and in the face of some headwinds along the way.

But I always said, nothing worthwhile is easy in this world, and you have to earn your way wherever you go. That's what makes it worthwhile when you finally accomplish your goals. So, that's who we are. And again, I could not say enough about Michael and his partners about just being solid in their approach to this. So, again, all good stuff.

Bruce Martin:

And also, this is the 20th anniversary of Andretti Autosport. It was originally Andretti Green Racing. He purchased Barry Green's team back in 2002. And when you look at what has all been accomplished in the last 20 years with Indy 500 wins, with INDYCAR Championships, with the stars that have been developed at Andretti Autosport, that's a pretty impressive history.

Mario Andretti:

Yes, I think it is, of course. And here again, I think even when he came out of the cockpit, he was still at the top of his game. But his ambition was (which I didn't really know at the time, for sure) to be involved in a sport on the long-term, which means in the ownership, team ownership. And he started out as a partner, as you said, with Team Green, and then it progressed from there.

So, as you could see, he’s been moving forward. And the thing that is important is looking at not just the top level, but he's looking at lower disciplines, which is the road to the top. And he's been exemplary in that respect in having always fielding at least one or two of the series leading up to the top by training future stars.

They aim to do that in Formula 1 as well, and Formula 2 and possibly Formula 3, to give potentially some young stars that would have a dream of cultivating their career into Formula 1. Probably be a much easier way to go there with an American team as part of it.

So, again, I think it's all part of making the sport healthier, nothing else. I mean, it's a huge investment in every way, but it's all about growth and health in the sport, the sport that we love. It's been our life.

Bruce Martin:

How big of an asset has McLaren F1, CEO, Zak Brown been on the Formula 1 bid, helping him maybe do some work behind the scenes on Michael's behalf to try to get this effort approved?

Mario Andretti:

Well, Zak Brown is a businessman, he's a friend. He understands the big picture, and that's really whatyou have to look at. As a team member, you don't just look at today: “Oh gosh, we have to split the big pie.” You got to look at the big picture, the healthier the sport is, the stronger it is, the better it is for everyone.

And Zak Brown, one of those, he's accomplished enough to see that side of it. And he’s not doing this as just a favor to us because we're friends, he's doing this because he sees the value that it brings to the big picture.

Bruce Martin:

You attended several Formula 1 Grands Prix last year, including at COTA, where you got to drive one of the old McLarens to give yourself a feel of what the modern Formula 1 car feels like after all the great accomplishments you experienced in Formula 1 back in the 1970s.

But when you are dealing with the Formula 1 paddock, what has the reaction been like to Mario Andretti involving this bid?

Mario Andretti:

Well, in general, the people that I know, the friends — and I always feel very much at home, why not?I always felt that way. And Formula 1 has been part of my career, my life, a great part of my career. So, I have friends there.

And obviously, some of it, what we're talking about is basically a lot of politics and all that, which I try to stay clear of. But I always felt that the sport has been really, really good to us in many ways. And again, we want to be an asset to the sport, nothing else, because that's our life. That's what we do. That's what we do.

Bruce Martin:

Racing is what keeps your blood pumping. And now, to have this prospect out there that can happen in the next couple of years, how much has that really reinvigorated Mario Andretti?

Mario Andretti:

Big time because I'm going to make sure that I stay in good shape, because I want to be the one to give the first Andretti Global Cadillac, the first burnout when the first test car comes out. So, I haven't told the team that yet, but I'm telling you that that's really in the back of my mind.

Bruce Martin:

So, what's your understanding of what the timetable looks like from here? What is the next step that needs to be done, and how soon do you expect to hear back on this fantastic bid?

Mario Andretti:

Yeah. Well, I wish I had that information for you. We're just sitting here anxiously waiting. I think it's important. I think it would probably inject just another dose of energy into it.

But other than that, we're still going full speed ahead to make sure that when this happens, we're not just starting from zero, that's all. And then from there, it's going to be a great sense of urgency to get it done. And as we get down the road, we'll know much better what the schedule could be, and then wewill present that. So, that's the way we are.

Bruce Martin:

So, in 2023, the United States becomes the first country to host three Formula 1 contests. Obviously,there's the one in Miami, also, the one at COTA. And in November, Thanksgiving weekend, will be the absolute blockbuster at Las Vegas. It would only seem to make sense to bring America's greatest name in racing to be part of an international series that has three contests in the United States.

Mario Andretti:

Well, like I said, I'm just hoping then I would like to think that the giant of the industry, Cadillac, General Motors should be embraced with open arms into Formula 1. And like I said, especially since we're going to have such a big presence in this country for the foreseeable future.

So, I think everything is positive. I don't see a negative anywhere. Quite honestly, I don't see how you could see that. And so, I'd love to be part of that, just positive things.

Bruce Martin:

I know that you want to be positive, but in some ways, do you feel like they keep moving the goalpost?

Mario Andretti:

Well, again, we've checked every box so far, so we're not pulling back on anything. And I think we've come to the table with something very meaningful with General Motors and Cadillac as an engine supplier and as a partner. And I don't think we could have done any better than that.

Bruce Martin:

And also, how key has Dan Towriss at Project 1001 been in helping to generate the funding that's required to have a Formula 1 team?

Mario Andretti:

Oh, everything. Like I said, Michael's partners have been phenomenal, and just have been totally resilient with the maximum resolve in all of this. And that's what you need. I think all the ingredients on that side are there in place. Couldn't be any better for Michael to have friends like that and partners like that.

Bruce Martin:

Well, not only were you an icon at Indianapolis, also Manzo, Monaco, the great tracks in Formula 1, the great tracks in INDYCAR, but you were also an icon in Daytona at the Rolex 24.

And last month, Andretti Autosport and Andretti Global announced that they're now going to be involved in IMSA, and I believe World Endurance Challenge. So, looking at that program, how excited are you to see the team get involved in that form of racing?

Mario Andretti:

Well, absolutely. Like I said, Michael wants to touch all the majors in our sport, and you could see that he's aligning himself with an icon and a sport with the Taylor group in IMSA, and then onto to Le Man and all of that, go to the top level.

So, you could see that he wants to have his hand in all of that, all of the majors in our industry. And from that standpoint, I mean, I couldn't be any more proud in that as far as Michael's ambition.

Bruce Martin:

So, for Rolex 24, how many hours can Mario Andretti be part of it? When the green flag drops, are you going to plan on being up for the whole thing? Or do you still kind of-

Mario Andretti:

Only if I drive, only if I drive. I'm only interested in driving. I think I know Wayne Taylor, I think hecould probably put me in the seat there.

Bruce Martin:

I don't want to bring age into it, but there's been many drivers of in latter years that have been able to compete in that race. So, that's kind of one of the great things about that race, is that it attracts so many different types of drivers.

Mario Andretti:

Oh, indeed. No question about it. Yeah. And then nowadays, they have four drivers, so, it's even from physical standpoint, it's not a big deal.

Bruce Martin:

Now, of course, this is an INDYCAR-based show, so, I have to ask you a few things about INDYCAR. As you look forward to the 2023 NTT INDYCAR Series season, there's some new drivers at Andretti Autosport that are coming over, younger looking team. How important do you think that is for the team to regain its stature in INDYCAR?

Mario Andretti:

Huge. Believe me, Michael and I just have been talking about that. And there's a lot of things that are happening with the team to be able to just — there's many things need to be done better, and they're not just sitting back, trust me. They want to be, they have to be at the forefront. That's the only reward that you have for all your hard work.

So, yeah, a lot has been done different, better. And that's all you can do. Just as long as you recognize that you need to just do a lot of things that were lacking, after you examine the situation, you examined the season. So, everyone is aware. Trust me, you've got to be winning again.

Bruce Martin:

One of the new drivers is going to be Kyle Kirkwood, a driver who in the former Indy Lights Series, now known as Indy NXT, drove for Andretti Autosport. He showed flashes of brilliance last year when he drove for AJ Foyt Racing. How much do you think we're going to see him burst upon the scene now that he's with Michael's team?

Mario Andretti:

Well, he is certainly welcome with open arms there. Michael knows him very well. And after a full season of INDYCAR under his belt, obviously, I’m sure that he's ready to put a big W on his repertoire. So, I like young talents like that, that have demonstrated their abilities.

And that's the beauty about what's happening in INDYCAR right now. As far as bright future, there's so many young talents that really represent the strength of what the series will be looking for in the near and in the future period.

Bruce Martin:

And also, there's a talented young female driver that's coming over to drive in the Indy NXT Series in 2023, Jamie Chadwick. What do you think American race fans will discover about her when they see her get out on the track?

Mario Andretti:

I think they'll be surprised and very pleased about her abilities, trust me. She has shown that already, and there's a lot to look forward to there as well.

Bruce Martin:

Now, from the big picture, INDYCAR will have a docuseries. It'll be on The CW, which is an actual over the air network, America's fifth network, and it's going to be called a 100 Days to Indy. And it's going to be geared toward a younger audience, although it's going to be entertaining to anybody who watches it. How valuable do you think that project is?

Mario Andretti:

Well, it's information, and bringing the inside of the sport to the fans to understand better. Look what the Netflix series did to Formula 1. I think to have the knowledge, the understanding that it’s got to be more appealing to the crowd when they look at the real thing, to see the dimension that goes into fielding a team and all of that. All the moving parts that go with it and how much of a team sportmotor sports is.

And all of these things are interesting aspects, and the more people understand about it, the more they gravitate to it.

Bruce Martin:

And as far as INDYCAR as a whole, car count on the grid is very impressive. It's getting up to around 28 cars for nearly every race. Still running a car that was built in 2012, although it's had several different iterations, it's really not the same car that debuted in 2012. It's had different changes that are made to it.

In December, they announced that they weren't going to be able to go forward with the 2.4-liter engine. They were going to have the 2.2-liter engine with the hybrid assist component. So, what are your thoughts on the actual package?

Mario Andretti:

Well, I think you have to progress. And again, I think that they move the new engine formula another year because of certain aspects or logistics and so on and so forth.

But nevertheless, you got to keep looking to the future. You got to have plans. And you got to look at the technology aspect that's interesting at the time. And I think INDYCAR is doing that very well at the moment. They're very cautious to make the move that's solid. And that's good business to approach it that way.

Bruce Martin:

And as we move forward into the following weekend, you live in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, and theNFL playoffs are starting this weekend. Do you have a strong feeling that the Philadelphia Eagles are going to go all the way this year?

Mario Andretti:

I think they've shown the capability to rise to the occasion. I mean, you never know, but again, as long as they're healthy, I think they have the ingredients there. I mean, the team, it's pretty solid in every component. I mean, you don't have a record like that unless you know how to execute. So, yeah, they're a good bet for the Super Bowl, in my opinion.

Bruce Martin:

Mario Andretti says, “Book it, the Philadelphia Eagles are going to the Super Bowl.”

Mario Andretti:

Yep.

Bruce Martin:

But Mario, it's always great to catch up with you. You've been a longtime friend and a longtime supporter of Pit Pass Indy, and we appreciate that. Good luck in 2023. Good luck with Andretti Global’s Formula 1 bid. And thank you for joining us today on Pit Pass Indy.

Mario Andretti:

My pleasure, Bruce. Anytime.

[Music playing]

Bruce Martin:

And that puts a checkered flag on this edition of Pit Pass Indy. We want to thank our guest, AndrettiGlobal, CEO, Michael Andretti and his father, racing legend, Mario Andretti, for joining us on today's podcast.

Along with loyal listeners like you, our guest help make Pit Pass Indy your path to victory lane for all things INDYCAR. For more INDYCAR coverage, follow me at Twitter @BruceMartin (one word, uppercase B, uppercase M) _500.

And to all our listeners, we want to extend our best wishes for a very happy and productive 2023 from all of us at Pit Pass Indy.

This has been a production of Evergreen Podcasts. A special thanks to our production team. Executive producers are Brigid Coyne and Gerardo Orlando. Recordings and edits were done by me, Bruce Martin and final mixing was done by Dave Douglas. Learn more at evergreenpodcasts.com.

Until next time, be sure to keep it out of the wall.