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Exploring the Future of Andretti Global After Michael Andretti’s Transition
The landscape of Andretti Global is evolving following Michael Andretti’s decision to step back from his role as Chairman and CEO in September. At 62 years old, he has passed the leadership responsibilities to Dan Towriss, the CEO of Group 1001, while taking on a position as a strategic advisor for the organization he co-founded in 2002. This transition has sparked discussions about what this means for the future of the team, particularly in terms of their ambitions in Formula 1 and IndyCar.
Many believe that Andretti’s departure from the helm signifies a pivotal moment for the Andretti-Cadillac F1 initiative, especially after Liberty Media confirmed General Motors as the 11th team in F1 starting in 2026. Under the Cadillac name, GM is set to embark as a customer team, with plans to develop their own power units later in the decade. The existing project at Andretti Global’s site in Silverstone will play a crucial role in these developments.
While the F1 program progresses, the focus also shifts toward Andretti’s IndyCar division as the 2025 season approaches. Even amidst these significant changes, Kyle Kirkwood, who drives the No. 27 Honda-powered entry, emphasizes the ongoing influence of Michael Andretti. He notes that Andretti remains actively involved, ensuring continuity within the team.
“We perceive this as a positive shift,” Kirkwood stated. “Michael is still around and engaged. There’s a solid connection among us, and I believe that both Michael and Dan have a cogent strategy that is unfolding well.”
Kyle Kirkwood, Andretti Global Honda
Photo by: Phillip Abbott / Motorsport Images
After a successful 2024 season, expectations are elevated for the crew. Colton Herta has notably enhanced his performance, achieving two victories, six podium finishes, and a career-high second place in the championship standings, while Kirkwood also enjoyed a productive year, finishing seventh overall. Conversely, Marcus Ericsson, who was the 2022 Indianapolis 500 champion, encountered a challenging season, landing 15th in the championship.
Reflecting on his struggles, Ericsson expressed his determination to improve. “The results from last year have only fueled my motivation to enhance my performance. I don’t subscribe to the notion of bad luck; I believe in creating one’s own opportunities. I am committed to bettering myself this year through mental conditioning and intense physical training.”
Despite Herta’s impressive achievements, he expressed disappointment in finishing just 31 points shy of the championship. Andrétti Global hasn’t secured a championship title since 2012, with rivals Chip Ganassi Racing and Team Penske dominating the series since then. Herta recognized the need for improvement across specific track types, particularly short and medium ovals.
Colton Herta, Andretti Global w/ Curb-Agajanian Honda
Photo by: Geoffrey M. Miller / Motorsport Images
“Our performance on superspeedways has generally been solid, but we struggled on the ovals, which became apparent in the championship standings. However, we turned things around significantly, resulting in a pole position in Iowa and a strong finish in Nashville, showcasing our competitive growth on these tracks,” Herta noted.
Looking ahead to the Cadillac F1 project, which holds significant interest for Herta, he expressed an eagerness to concentrate on his IndyCar commitments. “I have been tied up in discussions for years, and honestly, I just want to focus on my racing and winning this year,” he remarked. “If a future in F1 materializes, it’s a decision I’ll tackle when it comes. Right now, my family and friends are here in the U.S., and any transition would involve considerable thought.”
As Andretti Global navigates these transitions, both on and off the track, the organization’s trajectory will be closely watched as it aims to enhance its competitive standing in both Formula 1 and IndyCar.
Source
www.autosport.com