IndyCar powerhouse Andretti reportedly targets NASCAR expansion amid F1 battle

After securing success in IndyCar, Formula E, and Extreme E, Andretti Global, under the leadership of the legendary Michael Andretti, is setting its sights on expanding into the world of Formula 1. Not stopping there, the team is also planning a foray into NASCAR, signaling a bold expansion of their racing ambitions.

In recent years, Andretti Global, previously known as Andretti Autosport, has carved out a significant presence in various motorsport disciplines. Guided by Michael Andretti’s experience as a former Formula 1 driver, the team has become a formidable force, not only in IndyCar but also in Formula E. The announcement of new regulations for the 2026 Formula 1 season has sparked Andretti and JF Thormann, president of Andretti Global, to push for a spot on the F1 grid with a fresh team.

Despite the lack of concrete developments from the FIA regarding the upcoming F1 Concorde Agreement, Andretti Global has already made substantial investments, including a new 40,000 square-foot facility at Silverstone. They’ve also enlisted Pat Symonds, a renowned figure in motorsport engineering, as their chief technical officer. While the path to F1 remains uncertain, the team is actively pursuing opportunities in NASCAR, highlighting their diverse racing interests.

Thormann has emphasized the team’s unique position, competing across a wide range of series. He noted, “We’re the only ones that compete in the amount of series that we do. Mike’s ambition is still strong—we’re working to finalize our entry into Formula 1, which is well-known, and hopefully, NASCAR as well. This would give us a race nearly every weekend, keeping our name in the public eye and keeping us busy.”

A Closer Look at Andretti Global’s Teams and Drivers

Andretti Global’s presence spans across multiple motorsport categories, showcasing their versatility and commitment to racing excellence. They currently manage 11 teams, with representation in IndyCar, Indy NXT, Formula E, and Extreme E.

IndyCar: The team fields four cars, each with distinct sponsors and talented drivers. Colton Herta drives the #26 Gainbridge Honda, Kyle Kirkwood takes the wheel of the #27 AutoNation Honda, Marcus Ericsson pilots the #28 Delaware Life Honda, and Marco Andretti competes in the #98 MAPEI / Curb Honda. These drivers bring a mix of youth and experience, making Andretti a formidable competitor in the series.

Indy NXT: As a developmental platform for upcoming drivers, Indy NXT features five Andretti Global entries. The #26 Copart / Novara Technologies Dallara is driven by Louis Foster, the #27 Jaguar Land Rover Chesterfield Dallara by Bryce Aron, the #28 VEXT Dallara by Jamie Chadwick, the #29 Topcon Dallara by James Roe, and the #2 Grupo Indi Dallara by Salvador de Alba. This lineup reflects Andretti’s commitment to nurturing future talent.

Formula E: Partnering with Porsche, Andretti Global competes in the electric racing series with the #1 and #17 Andretti Porsche 99X Electric cars. The team is represented by drivers Jake Dennis and Norman Nato, who bring their skill and expertise to the innovative, eco-friendly racing platform.

Extreme E: In this off-road, electric SUV racing series, Andretti Global runs the #27 Andretti Altawkilat Odyssey 21. This rugged vehicle, developed by Spark Racing Technology and Williams Advanced Engineering, is driven by European Rally and Rallycross stars Catie Munnings and Timmy Hansen. Their participation in Extreme E showcases Andretti’s adaptability and commitment to sustainable motorsport.

Andretti Global’s expansion into new series and continued participation in existing ones not only demonstrates their ambition but also keeps them actively engaged in the racing world. Whether it’s on the traditional circuits of IndyCar, the electric tracks of Formula E, or the rugged terrains of Extreme E, Andretti Global is a name synonymous with competitive racing excellence. With potential entries into Formula 1 and NASCAR on the horizon, the future looks bright and busy for this iconic racing powerhouse.

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