Lewis Hamilton has voiced his full support for Michael Andretti’s potential entry into Formula One. The seven-time world champion believes that Andretti’s involvement would bring multiple benefits to the sport despite acknowledging that his opinion might stir some controversy within the F1 paddock.
Since 2016, F1 has not had 11 teams on the grid. However, earlier this week, the FIA approved Andretti’s application to join F1. The decision now rests with Formula One Management and the existing teams, who have the power to veto the entry. FOM and several teams have previously raised concerns about expanding the grid, citing commercial reasons and questioning whether an additional team would add value to the sport.
Ahead of this weekend’s Qatar Grand Prix, Hamilton expressed that Andretti’s entry would be a positive development. “It’s an opportunity for more jobs, another two seats available for a potential female driver to come through. It opens up more possibilities, and I think it’ll be exciting for the racing,” he stated.
F1 chief executive Stefano Domenicali and several team leaders have emphasized that a 10-team grid is currently optimal. They are concerned that an additional team might negatively impact the teams’ revenue without necessarily enhancing the sport’s revenue-generating capability. Hamilton conceded that his perspective might not align with that of the team owners.
“I’ve always felt that there weren’t enough cars on the grid,” he said. “So, while there will definitely be people who won’t be happy with my strong support for it, it’s great.”
Andretti’s team has achieved success in other series, including four IndyCar championships, six wins at the Indy 500, and the 2023 drivers’ title in Formula E. Hamilton’s viewpoint was echoed by world champion Max Verstappen, who could secure his third title during Saturday’s sprint race at the Lusail circuit.
“Everything I’ve seen so far – plus I think the partners they have and the name – they have shown that they are a professional team,” Verstappen remarked. “So it would be nice because it gives more opportunities for drivers.”
Verstappen needs just three more points to clinch the title. A sixth place or better on Saturday will suffice, making him the first driver to secure the title in the relatively new sprint race format.
