Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsFormula 1

Andretti welcomes US investment in F1

Motor racing legend Mario Andretti was ecstatic about the prospect of an American investment investing in Formula 1.

On the back of the news of a joint bid for a majority stake in F1 currently being conducted by a consortium led by Qatar Sports Investments and Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross, Mario Andretti considered the potential deal as 'fabulous news'.

"This is fabulous and music to my ears," said the 75-year-old motor sport icon. “In America we have the mind-set to make things happen. It’s a huge market. I can’t see any negatives. A solid investment would spell stability for the sport."

"This is the perfect place to market and showcase F1. It would be a damn good thing. And it would mean more involvement from sponsors that are large corporations and have a global presence.”

As the official ambassador for the United States Grand Prix held in Austin, Texas, Andretti was instrumental in getting a race in the US back on the Grand Prix calendar. But he also believes a second event in the country would be of great benefit for Formula 1.

“There would be room for two races in the US. The other one would have to be in New York or California. The weather is more accommodating in California. But New York has not yet given up on the idea.”

Andretti also addressed the sport's current difficulties, claiming F1 has gone 'overboard with the technical side of things', and should make itself more consumer friendly.

Click here for FIA President Jean Todt's thoughts on the current state of F1

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.