🏎️ Michael Andretti steps down from Andretti Global

In this week’s email:

• Michael Andretti Steps Down 👋

• Norris in the Championship Hunt 🏆

• Sauber's 2025 Driver Dilemma❓

• Renault Shuts Down F1 Engine Programme ✌️

• LVMH $1B Deal 💰

Michael Andretti Steps Down from Andretti Global 👋

Michael Andretti has announced his departure from daily operations at Andretti Global. A move that could signal a new direction for the company and its potential bid for F1. This decision may not have been entirely voluntary, as speculation mounts around the implications for his F1 ambitions.

The F1 Rejection
Earlier this year, Michael’s bid to join F1 with Cadillac was accepted by the FIA but subsequently rejected by F1 management. The rejection was attributed to a perceived lack of commercial value in the Andretti name. Prompting widespread speculation about the future of American teams in F1 and whether Michael himself was part of the problem.

A New Leadership Approach
Michael will now focus on an ambassadorial role, handing day-to-day responsibilities to his business partner Dan Towriss. Towriss has a successful track record. Having orchestrated a new partnership with Cadillac in the IMSA endurance racing series. Suggesting a shift in leadership dynamics.

Speculation on Future Partnerships
Michael's resignation coincides with growing activity at Andretti Global. Leading to speculation that this move could facilitate Cadillac’s entry into F1 without the Andretti name. Cadillac has expressed willingness to enter as a works team. Which could open doors for a collaboration that leverages Towriss’s expertise while distancing from Michael.

Norris in the Championship Hunt 🏆

Rapid Evolution: In just six months, Norris has transformed from a race contender to a championship challenger. With one win already under his belt and fierce battles against Max Verstappen, the momentum is building. The gap has shrunk to 52 points with six races left, keeping the dream alive for both Norris and McLaren.

Learning and Adapting: Despite the newfound spotlight, Norris maintains, “Life has not changed.” He emphasizes a heightened focus on perfecting every aspect of his racing, including race starts, which proved crucial in his latest victory in Singapore.

Breaking Through: The turning point for Norris came in Miami, where a strategic safety car and a car overhaul propelled him to his first win. Following that, he dominated at Zandvoort and Singapore, showcasing his skills at the front of the pack.

Focus on the Moment: Norris is keeping his championship hopes grounded. “The less I think about it, the better,” he shares, opting to focus on each race rather than the bigger picture. This mental approach has enhanced his performance and confidence.

Looking Ahead: With the season nearing its conclusion, Norris and McLaren are setting their sights on the future. No matter the outcome this year, they’re poised to be strong contenders for the 2025 championship.

Sauber's 2025 Driver Dilemma❓

As the U.S.A. Grand Prix approaches, the focus is on Sauber’s second seat for 2025, currently held by Valtteri Bottas. With Audi’s first signing, Nico Hulkenberg, already confirmed, Bottas is the favorite to stay, but the emergence of exciting young talents raises questions about the team's future direction.

Young Talent vs. Experience

Franco Colapinto has made a strong case for himself with impressive performances as a stand-in for Williams. Making him a contender for Sauber. His recent results suggest he could be ready for F1 full-time. There are concerns about him getting lost in an uncompetitive team environment.

On the other hand, sticking with Bottas provides Sauber with much-needed experience. Bottas's familiarity with the team could help accelerate their development into an Audi works team by 2026. Especially given the importance of continuity during this transition.

The Alternative: Gabriel Bortoleto

Another name in the mix is Gabriel Bortoleto. A standout in F2 and reportedly on Sauber's radar. His youth and strong performance could make him an even more attractive option than Colapinto. His contract is with McLaren which complicates matters.

Challenges in Signing Young Drivers

Both Colapinto and Bortoleto present challenges in terms of contract negotiations. Williams may demand a high price to release Colapinto. Especially given his recent success. Similarly, McLaren is likely to want to retain Bortoleto, complicating Sauber’s search for young talent.

Conclusion

As Sauber prepares for the US Grand Prix, the decision on their second driver looms large. Balancing the need for immediate experience with the potential of emerging talents will be crucial as they transition into the Audi era. The debate continues, with valid arguments on both sides for keeping Bottas or pursuing youthful prospects like Colapinto and Bortoleto.

Renault Shuts Down F1 Engine Programme ✌️

Renault has officially announced the closure of its Formula 1 engine programme at its Viry-Chatillon facility in France, marking a significant shift as Alpine prepares to transition to customer Mercedes power for the upcoming 2026 regulations.

Renault has officially announced the closure of its Formula 1 engine programme at its Viry-Chatillon facility in France, marking a significant shift as Alpine prepares to transition to customer Mercedes power for the upcoming 2026 regulations.

The Decision to Pivot

This decision comes amidst ongoing deliberations about the future of Renault's involvement in F1. While work on a new 2026 Renault power unit had already begun, the company has opted to pivot to a customer-based model instead. The move has faced backlash from the Alpine Racing Works Council, which has been vocal in urging Renault to reconsider its plans.

Future Focus on Engineering Excellence

In conjunction with the closure of the engine programme, Renault will be establishing a new "Hypertech Alpine" engineering centre at the Viry site. This centre aims to repurpose the facility towards high-tech engineering projects, although the specifics of these projects remain largely undefined at this point.

Alpine's management stated, “As a result of the consultation process with employee representatives, we confirm our project to transform the site into a centre of engineering and high-tech excellence by late 2024.” The plan includes continuing work on the existing power units until the end of the 2025 season, with the current engines being frozen in development since 2022, only adjustable for reliability.

Workforce Transition and Job Security

Renault has promised job security for employees impacted by this decision. Each member of the engine project will be offered alternative positions within the new transformation initiative, which includes training programs to support their transition.

The Road Ahead for Alpine

The future partnership with Mercedes is yet to be formally announced. With Aston Martin moving to factory Honda power in 2026, there appears to be an opening for Alpine to secure a spot among the customer teams utilizing Mercedes engines, joining McLaren and Williams.

Historically, Renault has struggled to keep pace with rival engine manufacturers since the hybrid engine era began in 2014. The Alpine team’s performance in the current season has been lackluster, with just two points scored since the summer break, positioning them for a potentially disappointing ninth place in the constructors' championship—their worst finish since returning as a works entry in 2016.

Implications for the Future

The decision to close the engine programme raises questions about Renault’s long-term strategy in F1 and fuels speculation about the potential sale of its F1 team. As the landscape of Formula 1 continues to evolve, the move to customer engines could allow Alpine to focus more on engineering and competitiveness without the burden of engine development, potentially paving the way for a more successful future in the sport.

As the U.S.A. Grand Prix approaches, all eyes will be on Alpine to see how this strategic shift unfolds on the track.

LVMH $1B Deal 💰

In 2025, F1 will experience a major transformation, highlighted by a groundbreaking $1 billion sponsorship deal with French luxury conglomerate LVMH. This partnership promises to integrate LVMH’s 75 brands throughout the F1 experience. Ensuring that luxury is at the forefront—from Moët & Chandon on the podium to Louis Vuitton trophy cases.

TAG Heuer Joins the Race
LVMH will see TAG Heuer stepping in as the official timekeeper. Eeplacing Rolex after more than a decade. This move not only elevates TAG Heuer’s presence but also showcases LVMH’s commitment to luxury in the sport.

A Luxurious Atmosphere
Expect an unparalleled experience at races with offerings from iconic brands such as Dior, Fendi, and Hennessy. LVMH aims to create a lavish atmosphere for fans, connecting them with luxury at every turn.

Learning from the Olympics
The recent success of LVMH at the Paris Olympics, where its brands took center stage, sets the tone for their strategy in Formula 1. The goal? Achieve omnipresence and exclusive experiences for fans at all races.

Engaging a New Audience
LVMH is keen on tapping into the growing U.S. market, particularly the younger demographic. Frédéric Arnault highlights this shift as a pivotal factor in their investment.