He set new one-lap qualifying records five times and new four-lap records on four occasions. He drove in 29 Indianapolis 500 races, winning in 1969 and placing second twice. Though Andretti did say, with a wry smile, he was 'trying to get points for my Super License' by driving the McLaren around Laguna Seca.MARIO ANDRETTI compiled an outstanding record on his way to becoming one of the sport’s best known drivers. In addition to his racing days likely being behind him, a driver must accumulate a certain number of points from racing in other series and/or test-driving F1 cars in order to be eligible to participate in F1 - a system that has drawn considerable criticism after seven-time Ind圜ar race-winner Colton Herta was denied. If Andretti Autosport made the F1 leap, could a triumphant return to the track be in the cards for the elder Andretti? Determination from the FIA, the global governing body of motorsport, is pending.

Andretti Autosport has since applied for an expansion spot on the F1 grid for the 2024 season. According to RACER, the Andrettis made an attempt to purchase the Alfa Romeo F1 team in 2021, but the deal fell through. His son, Michael Andretti, is the owner of Andretti Autosport, which competes in Ind圜ar and various other racing series.Īndretti Autosport has tried to join the F1 grid in recent years but to no avail. He won 12 races in 128 starts and claimed the 1978 world championship.Īndretti also had an illustrious Ind圜ar career, winning four championships. The car just does what it should do.'Īndretti's F1 career spanned from 1968 to 1982. It's a sweet feeling as a driver, so satisfying. 'In general, though, it is what I expected. In some corners I got it right and in others I didn't. I couldn't see the numbers on my downshift. 'It's all about getting the proper gearing and some of the problem for me was the way my helmet was vis-á-vis my steering wheel. 'It's sweet but obviously I left a lot on the table,' Andretti said. However, in typical Andretti fashion, he thought he left some time on the track.

Returning to the site of his final Ind圜ar race in 1994, Andretti had himself a joy ride Saturday. MORE: Dolphins turn inaugural Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix into 'Disneyland for racecars' 2022 MIAMI GRAND PRIX: How the Formula 1 race arrived in Miami

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