How F1's new team conservatism has already seen off one credible bid

When Andretti was announced to have passed the FIA's assessment process for an 11th Formula 1 team with a view to joining the field in either 2025, 2026, or 2027, it came at the expense of the other three entrants that had made it into the "second phase": Hitech, LKYSUNZ, and Rodin.

The FIA cited that Andretti "was the only candidate to meet the stringent criteria that were set by the FIA in all material respects from the four teams which lodged formal applications", which not only featured both technical and sporting capabilities but also evidence of funding and sustainability cases to ensure that F1 can continue to meet its goal of "net zero" by 2030. Teams were also required to demonstrate methods of producing "positive societal impact" through the setup of the team. Andretti has so far not officially disclosed how it has met those criteria and may be keeping its public powder dry to ensure it satisfies F1 enough to get its break onto the grid.