Horner reveals problem behind Andretti F1 entry

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has conceded that until F1 is able 'address the economics' of adding an additional team to the grid, Michael Andretti's bid is unlikely to progress.

The son of former champion Mario Andretti, Michael, has been bidding to add his eponymous team to the 10 already competing in F1.

But the American has found stiff opposition from those already in the paddock, primarily due to concerns over how it will affect the prize fund and revenue streams for existing outfits.

Speaking to Sky Sports F1, Horner conceded: “I think, if you remove the economics, then to have 24 cars on the grid is a good thing.

"And I think it would see more young drivers that are struggling to make it in [at present], it would see them getting in.

“The problem is always going to be, how do you address the finances, because by bringing two more teams in, you just dilute the pot for the 10 that are there and there is no relegation or promotion system.

“So, it is going to be something that the promotor, Stefano, is going to have to justify particularly to the smaller teams. If they are going to have to give up five, 10, or 15 million dollars for the sake of another entry coming in, why would they do that?

“Like all things, the commercials will drive it.

“If you look at it from an idealistic point of view, I’d fully support 12 teams. But when you look at the numbers and what it is going to cost each team individually, that is where it falls over.”

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