There are intriguing developments at the intersection of Formula 1 and U.S. politics as Michael Andretti's departure from his racing empire raises questions amid an ongoing political investigation.
Earlier this year, Donald Trump drew attention when he attended the Miami Grand Prix, and now his 2024 election opponent Kamala Harris has mentioned her family's love for F1.
In a new interview on Sirius XM, Harris said her "whole family" enjoys F1, leading Howard Stern to ask if the comment was a "campaign thing."
"Oh, God no," Harris replied, adding that she hasn't had time to watch races lately "because I am campaigning." Harris did, however, express admiration for Lewis Hamilton, stating, "He's leaving Mercedes. You should see it – you might get hooked."
More seriously, Formula 1 is currently under scrutiny by the U.S. government, with f1-insider.com suggesting a Senate hearing may be on the horizon. The investigation concerns Andretti-Cadillac's failed bid to join the sport, amid allegations of anti-competitive practices involving F1's U.S.-based owner, Liberty Media.
"Michael Andretti, who is well connected, especially among the Republicans, is said to have pulled out all the stops to resolve the whole thing politically," claimed journalist Ralf Bach. "We have learned that the American investigation is said to have found evidence, including a WhatsApp group with (Stefano) Domenicali and some current team bosses, that proves the illegal agreements," Bach added, referencing the alleged anti-competitive behavior.
Andretti's decision to step back from the day-to-day running of his Andretti Global racing team has coincided with the investigation, prompting speculation about a potential link.
"Decades of running flat out doesn't come without sacrifice and, after much thought and reflection over the past several months, I came to the decision to take a step back," Andretti explained in an open letter. "As I make this decision for myself, my family and this team, I know this is somewhat of a shock to many, especially you, the fans, my extended family."
Andretti expressed his desire to spend more time with his loved ones, saying, "I'm excited about the opportunity to spend more time with my beautiful family, including my 10-year-old twins, embrace my new Nonno title and explore new things on a personal level and with my other businesses. So, this isn't a goodbye, it is just the turning of the page."
Journalist Bach reacted to Andretti's departure, noting, "Michael Andretti has now left his company and is only acting as a strategic advisor from now on. Is this the first step towards an agreement?"
