DOJ Launches Antitrust Probe into Formula 1 Ownership Over Rejection of Andretti Global’s Bid

The U.S. Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division has initiated an investigation into Liberty Media, the ownership entity of Formula 1, following its controversial decision to reject Andretti Global’s bid to join the prestigious racing league as its 11th team.

According to Sports Illustrated at the core of the investigation is whether Formula 1’s decision to deny Andretti’s entry violates U.S. antitrust laws. Concerns have arisen that the decision was influenced by assessments suggesting that Andretti might lack competitiveness and fail to deliver sufficient commercial value in the medium term. Additionally, there was significant resistance from existing Formula 1 teams, who were reportedly reluctant to dilute their prize money by sharing it with another competitor.

Andretti Global, which had partnered with General Motors’ Cadillac for its ambitious bid, had established operations in Silverstone, the heart of British motorsport, and undertaken significant recruitment efforts, including hiring former F1 technical director Pat Symonds. Despite meeting the technical requirements set by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), Andretti’s bid was ultimately blocked at the Formula 1 level.

During a recent quarterly earnings call, Greg Maffei, CEO of Liberty Media, confirmed the ongoing investigation. “Looking at Andretti, as you saw this morning, we announced that there is a DoJ investigation,” Maffei stated. He assured that Liberty Media would fully cooperate with the investigation, including any related requests for information.

Maffei defended the decision to reject Andretti’s bid, expressing confidence in the legal standing of Formula 1’s actions. “We believe our determination, F1’s determination, was in compliance with all applicable U.S. antitrust laws, and we’ve detailed the rationale for our decision, vis-à-vis Andretti in prior statements,” Maffei said.

The decision to exclude Andretti Global has also drawn political attention. Following testimony from F1 legend Mario Andretti on Capitol Hill, Jim Jordan, the chairman of the United States House Judiciary Committee, launched an investigation seeking clarity on the decision-making process that kept Andretti out of the league.

Liberty Media has reiterated its openness to expanding Formula 1 but emphasized that any new team must meet the approval standards of both the FIA and Formula 1. “We are certainly not against the idea that any expansion is wrong. There is a methodology for expansion that requires approval of the FIA and F1, and both groups have to find the criteria met. We’re certainly open to new entrants making applications and potentially being approved if those requirements are met,” Maffei elaborated.

Source: Sports Illustrated