Andretti Global has announced plans for a $200million new headquarters near Indianapolis Metropolitan Airport.
The announcement did not specifically reference Michael Andretti’s plan to enter a new team in Formula 1, but used the Andretti Global parent company title under which the F1 project has been launched.
The new 575,000 square foot building, which is intended to be operational by 2025 and to add 500 new jobs to the local economy, will be “the headquarters of Andretti’s global commercial functions and the base of operations for the team’s current NTT IndyCar Series, Indy Lights and IMSA programmes and other future racing initiatives”.
Andretti Autosport also currently has Formula E and Extreme E teams, and is part of the Walkinshaw Andretti United collaboration in Australia’s Supercars series.
Its plan also includes a “museum and innovation centre that will preserve and showcase the Andretti legacy and inspire the future of motorsports”.
“Indiana holds an important place in the history of racing, and in my career as a driver and an owner; I’m happy to confirm that the Racing Capital of the World will continue to be the home of our global racing efforts for a long time to come,” said Michael Andretti of the new HQ plan.
“Over the past 20 years, I’ve worked to expand our operations and I’m proud of our steps to create a diverse racing portfolio.
“Our current facility has served us well. Our team has expanded in both competition and commercial areas and our people deserve the best environment and resources available.
“I’m excited to have so many of our teams under one roof as we continue to build and grow.”
Mario Andretti said in an appearance on the WTF1 Podcast last month that the team had people “working every single day” in both the United States and Europe to progress the Andretti F1 team plan.
The announcement of the HQ plan fits with The Race’s understanding that Andretti Global would have an overall base in the US but carry out much of its day-to-day F1 operation from a European location for logistical reasons.
It hopes to be on the F1 grid by 2024 and has an engine supply deal with Renault lined up.
Andretti said in February that it had submitted paperwork about its F1 entry plan to the FIA.
But the FIA has made clear that there is currently no entry process for new teams open, and it is understood F1 itself would prefer that any additional slot on the grid goes to a new manufacturer team.
