The end of the Andretti era
After weeks of rumors, Michael Andretti has finally decided to come forward, officially announcing his departure from the team bearing his name after twenty-two years through a long letter addressed to the fans of the American team, published on the Andretti Global website.
The renowned American team will now be in the hands of Dan Towriss, CEO and president of Group 1001, a financial services company that includes brands like Gainbridge, one of the main sponsors in the American motorsport scene, including IndyCar and Andretti Global itself.
The farewell letter
“I was born a racer,” begins Mario’s son. “Since I was a child, I knew nothing but life in the fast lane. Being a ‘son of,’ even though proud, meant a high bar to reach, and once I hit the accelerator, I never looked back.”
“I didn’t stop at anything to find success. I drove for the passion and love of this sport, but I won out of fear of losing. My father’s childhood dream became my destiny, and together we built a legacy and a family business.”
“When my days behind the wheel waned, I decided to create a space that would inspire future drivers to go faster than me. I believe that, with the help of many very qualified and passionate team members, I succeeded in doing just that.”
“In the last twenty years, our team has seen highs and lows. We’ve grown to a global level that I believe has not yet been reached in the world of motorsport, and we’ve seen some of the best racing talents proudly wear the Andretti badge. Many of my fondest memories came while leading this organization,” Michael added. “I’m very proud of what we’ve built. But decades of racing full throttle are not without sacrifices. After thinking and reflecting long and hard in recent months, I’ve decided to take a step back. I had a daily operational role even before I stepped out of the race car, and it’s time to hand over the baton to my partner and friend Dan Towriss.” – he continued.
“In making this decision for myself, my family, and the team, I know it’s a bit of a shock to many, especially to you, the fans, my extended family. For many of you, you’ve watched me grow up, or you grew up alongside me, and regardless of the moves we made as a team, you stayed by our side through every moment.”
“I don’t take lightly that generations of Andretti fans are the best in the business. I’m honored to be considered a fan favorite, a role model, and a friend. And I thank you for a lifetime of support and, in some cases, brutal honesty.”
“But I won’t be gone. I’ll be a consultant to the team and available to help whenever I can. Although you’ll see me less at the track, know that my passion for this sport and my support for our team and its collaborators will remain unwavering. My hope is that you, as Andretti fans, will continue to support our team with the same enthusiasm and loyalty you have kindly shown me and my family over the years. I’m excited about the opportunity to spend more time with my beautiful family, including my 10-year-old twins, to embrace my new title of Grandpa, and to explore new things personally and with my other ventures. So, this isn’t goodbye, it’s just turning the page.” – he concluded.
With the sale of the team, Andretti is likely putting an end to the Formula 1 project, which was strongly desired by Michael but rejected by FOM despite formal approval from the FIA.
Even though he has sold the majority stake to Towriss, Andretti will still remain involved with the team as a consultant and ambassador and will dedicate himself to other projects.
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