Brundle: 'Andretti news puts the FIA head-to-head with Liberty Media'

News emerged on Wednesday that Andretti Autosport will not have a place on the grid until at least 2028. Former F1 driver and commentator Martin Brundle reacted to the news with Sky Sports F1. He understands the disappointment among fans, but also sees the interests of FOM and the other F1 teams.

The internet has reacted with disappointment to the news that Andretti has been rejected to be the 11th team to enter Formula 1. Several reasons can be given for and against Andretti's participation. For one, a new team will provide new challenges and perhaps more excitement, but it is a tricky situation.

Formula 1 and Liberty Media do not give an agreement

The FIA has given permission for the US team's participation, but Formula 1 and Liberty Media are resisting. "This does put the FIA absolutely head-to-head with Formula One management and Liberty Media because the FIA said yes, Formula One have said no to what they often refer to in that document as an 11th team rather than necessarily Andretti. They're quite rightly saying that for Andretti as a new team, a novice as they call them, to build a brand new car for 2025 and then when the regulations change fundamentally for 2026 to start all over again is too much of a tall order. They think they won't be competitive. Andretti will no doubt say well give us a chance we're a mighty organisation with a lot of funding, we'll show you what we can do," Brundle said.

Other Formula One teams don't want an eleventh team either

Several Formula One teams have shown disagreement with an 11th team. "This is peak F1 we're in here and the teams no doubt will be saying - and others - hang on a minute many of us have poured billions into our team to get Formula One where it is now. There's demand all over the world for races. Grandstands are sold out, you can't just come and join our club now when everything's going so well you're going to have to show us what you can bring to the table. F1 have clearly said today you're not bringing enough to make it warrant an extra team on the grid."