In the high-speed world of Formula 1, where every single move is scrutinized and carefully evaluated, Rodin Cars' announcement regarding its exclusion from the F1 grid has unleashed a wave of discussion and speculation. The Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), F1's governing body, recently rejected Rodin Cars' bid for admission, leaving the team and their supporters to ponder the future of racing. However, a clear winner emerges amid this uncertainty: Andretti Cadillac Racing, now very close toentry into F1 as the eleventh team.
The FIA has opened the doors to various teams that have applied to join the F1 grid. Among the nominees were well-known names such as Hitech Grand Prix, Rodin Carlin, Asian start-up LKY SUNZ and Craig Pollock-backed Formula Equal. But none of these would seem to have passed the first step, that is, convincing the FIA of the feasibility of the project to enter F1. Nobody but Andretti.
Andretti-Cadillac the only winning candidate?
Rodin Cars, through a statement from its founder David Dicker, respectfully accepted the FIA's decision. Dicker stressed that Rodin Cars' intention was not to criticize the FIA, but simply to share relevant information with the Formula 1 community. The team expressed its appreciation for the opportunity to be part of the process and extended best wishes to Andretti on their successful application.
“We fully respect and accept the result. Our sole purpose is to release information we consider to be of public interest to inform the community of Formula 1. We appreciate the opportunity to have participated in the FIA process and extend our best wishes to Andretti on their successful application. Rodin Cars remains committed to pushing the boundaries of motorsport and will continue to pursue excellence in the world of racing.”
At the moment this statement remains the only communication on Andretti's entry into F1. Since neither the FIA nor Andretti have commented on the matter.
The project rejected
Rodin Cars' plan was quite ambitious. The team would build its cars in New Zealand, a move that differentiates them from the other 10 Formula 1 teams, which have their headquarters in Europe. Rodin Cars also revealed it is in talks with Ferrari over a potential powertrain package. While the details of these discussions are still shrouded in mystery, the idea of joining forces with one of the most iconic names in racing has sparked a lot of curiosity.
Another distinctive element of the Rodin project is the commitment to reserve a seat for a female pilot. In a traditionally male-dominated industry, this move is a sign of change and progress. The team named Jamie Chadwick, a well-known figure in the racing world, three-time W Series champion and current Indy NXT driver. Rodin Cars has openly expressed its interest in Chadwick, noting that if she were available, they would have no hesitation in giving her a place on the team. The presence of women in elite racing has historically been limited, but with initiatives like this one from Rodin Cars, the path is being paved for a more equitable and representative future in motorsport.
With an ambition to build innovative cars, an enthusiasm for collaborating with prestigious names such as Ferrari and a commitment to gender inclusivity, Rodin Cars is setting a new standard in the world of motor racing.
Source: RacingNews365
