FIA rejects carmaker's F1 team application as theory emerges over Andretti bid
Rodin Cars confirmed its application to create a new Formula 1 team was rejected by the FIA, and claimed that "the only successful applicant will be Andretti Global".
The New Zealand-based carmaker is one of at least four parties understood to have applied through the FIA's Expressions of Interest system set up earlier this year. Ten teams currently make up the F1 grid, though the rules allow for up to 12 at any given time.
Rodin has experience in single-seater motorsport, having taken over as majority shareholder at the Carlin team earlier this year. It followed that up several months later with its bid to join the F1 party.
In a statement, signed by founder David Dicker, the manufacturer confirmed its application was rejected: "Rodin Cars participated in the recent FIA process aimed at gaining entry into the prestigious Formula 1 World Championship. Unfortunately, our bid was not successful," it read.
That was at the very beginning of a lengthy statement, during which it outlined what it described as "the significant differences" between its bid and the one lodged by Andretti Global. The American motorsport giant, which competes in IndyCar, Formula E and the Australian Supercars series, among others, teamed up with General Motors for its own application.
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The Rodin statement claimed: "Recent information suggests, as anticipated from the outset of this process, that the only successful applicant will be Andretti Global." No official decision has been communicated by the FIA, which told that "several candidates have now been informed that their application has not been approved".
Explaining its plan for an F1 entry, Rodin revealed details of its submission. It had planned to build its cars at its current facility in New Zealand, which would have made it the only manufacturer based in the southern hemisphere on the grid.
Rodin said it would have been able to provide young drivers with a direct ladder through the junior formulae through its Carlin teams, all the way up to F1. It also claimed there was the "opportunity of discussions for a Ferrari collaboration on the Rodin F1 car", hinting at a potential engine deal with the Italian team.
The carmaker also pledged to reserve one of its F1 race seats for a female driver. "We have tested Liam Lawson, Jamie Chadwick and Louis Sharp at our facility in New Zealand, in both an F3 car and our own car, the Rodin FZed, which is a car somewhat quicker than a GP2/F2 car," Rodin said. "Jamie performed exceptionally well and, if she was available, we would have no hesitation in putting her in a seat."
The statement concluded: "We appreciate the opportunity to have participated in the FIA process and extend our best wishes to Andretti for their successful bid. Rodin Cars remains committed to pushing the boundaries of motorsport and will continue to pursue excellence in the world of racing."
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