Racing legend Mario Andretti recently took to social media to share a heartwarming update with his fans and followers.
The 1978 Formula 1 champion announced the birth of his great-granddaughter, with an emotional post stating:
“I have a new title: GREAT GRANDPA. BISNONNO.”
Mario’s grandson, Marco Andretti, a former IndyCar driver, and his girlfriend, Billie Jo Powers, welcomed their daughter, Miura Micah Andretti, into the world on September 17. Marco posted:
“Miura Micah Andretti has entered the chat at 1:58pm. 6.7 lbs. Billie and baby are doing great.”
The anticipation leading up to this joyous event had been building for months. Marco and Billie Jo celebrated with loved ones at a baby shower, also affectionately called Marco’s “dad-chelor” party.
Former race car driver Mario Andretti listens during a news conference on May 01, 2024 in Washington, DC. Rep. John James (R-MI) hosted Andretti on Capitol Hill to respond to the Formula 1 management denying his family and General Motors the opportunity to join the global motorsports series. Mario Andretti announces the birth of his great-granddaughter.
Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
Billie Jo Powers also shared glimpses into the preparations made for their baby’s arrival. Taking to Instagram, she offered a tour of their thoughtfully arranged nursery.
“Our happy place. So in love with our nursery day bed and glider combo. I wanted to create the most comfortable space for our baby girl while still having the option to get a good night sleep. The quality and features make this combo the perfect addition to our nursery. So in love with this room!”
Andretti Autosport’s Formula 1 Bid
Andretti Autosport, in partnership with General Motors, is pushing for an entry into Formula 1. After gaining approval from the FIA in October 2023, the bid went to Formula One Management but was subsequently dismissed with the provision that the team would be reconsidered for the 2028 season.
Speaking to the media about the rejection, Andretti commented:
“I was offended, actually. I don’t think we deserved that, to be honest with you.
“It’s a big investment in the series, and you’d think they’d welcome that. Even the value of the series is more valuable with 11 teams than 10, so I don’t know. Tell us what is really wrong.
“That’s another offensive statement there. We’re the ones that worked it out, and GM said it over and over, ‘Andretti or nothing,’ and then (F1) still tried to take it.
“There’s an undercurrent there that I don’t understand, quite honestly, but if they want blood, well, I’m ready.”
The former F1 champion continued:
“We only had one meeting with them. That’s a problem. We haven’t had enough. I think that’s why I really welcome our next meeting. You know, let’s sit down,” Andretti said.
“There were some opportunities missed along the way, but we’ve got to look forward, not back. I’m remaining hopeful because we never stop working towards this.
“It was made clear that our work is at pace, and as you can see we’re not just talking. We’re putting brick and mortar together. We’ve shown that with the team that already has a place in Silverstone.
“We’re trying to say ‘We’ll do whatever you ask of us. We’ll do whatever is there. Now, if you think of something, you tell us.’
“But they haven’t told us yet except for some excuses like, ‘Oh we don’t want you coming on, we don’t want you to be embarrassed.’ But we don’t want to embarrass ourselves, and the fact is General Motors has made it so clear that they’re excited about this project. They have a long-term commitment there, and I don’t know what else we can do.
“The rules say that 11 or 12 teams is legal. We’re all-in, and I don’t know what else to do. I still don’t know what the reasons are because let’s be reasonable. We’re all racers. We all are professionals. We’re trying to advance the cause for all of us.
“I’ve never been disrespected as a person face-to-face, but it’s been at a distance, and I don’t think we deserve that.”
