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Michael, Marco and Mario Andretti
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The last time an Andretti name made its rounds in the Formula One paddock was in 1993. Now, with Marco, the world champions grandson, honing his talent in the American motor racing circuit, it may not be long till that name reappears to join the likes of Lotus on the grid. F1PULSE.com caught up with Mario Andretti himself to discuss whether the legacy will continue.
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Mario Andretti racing in the Indy 500 in 1970
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What is the difference in racing in F1 and American events?
There are differences because of rules only. As far as drivers effort and what it takes skill wise is basically the same. Any of the top talents that are champions here in the United States can be champions in Formula One and vice versa. It just takes something very special to be able to get results at the very top of these disciplines. When it comes to what is necessary things are the same.
What do you cherish the most, your F1 championship or your IndyCar titles?
All the titles are very important, very special. It’s a part of your life, a part of your goal. But F1 was always my first love. I was born and raised in Italy so that’s when I fell in love with motor racing. And it’s always been on the back of my mind. For me to win the F1 championship, in my native country in Italy and all of that, from my personal standpoint is the most special moment of my career.
Will we see an Andretti team in F1 that case?
I would love to see that. I love Formula One more than anything. I still think that given the opportunity my grandson, Marco, will really be good talent for F1. Is ways of doing things, learning quick and all that sort of things, his style, everything to me is conducive to that. I just hope that he has the opportunity in the future to be evaluated properly and then I would really love to see that.
And the team as well, Andretti Racing...
Obviously, that will be even another thing that would give me reason maybe to go all the F1 races and events eventually.
Is there any talk of Andretti Racing entering into Formula One?
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The Andrettis: Michael (L) and Mario (R) celebrate Marco's (C) win at the Indy Grand Prix in 2006
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Not at the moment. Michael never closes his door to anything. I think, god willing, he is going to be in there for a long time in motor racing and he has a substantial team and hopefully the success of the F1 team will probably be an example of what can be done with some of the private teams and maybe in the future who knows. Never say never. Michael is open to any of those things.
When will see another Andretti in Formula One?
Hopefully really soon. I really, really hope that with Marco.
Any particular year in mind?
It would have to be probably in the next three years.