Andretti: F1 will recover from the espionage affairs

Mario Andretti, one of the legends in F1, believes that the discipline will not suffer from the various espionage scandals that marked the 2007 season.

With the FIA’s decision to cancel the February 14th hearing that could have ruled on new sanctions against McLaren, there is great hope that the sport will emerge intact from this ordeal.

And even if some observers believe otherwise, Andretti thinks that the sport is in great shape and that this season has proven to be a magnificent battle. The arrival of Lewis Hamilton has surely contributed to this rise in popularity.

When asked about the place of the various scandals, Andretti said: « How can you not pay attention to what happened? You might think it hurt, but you know what? This event brought a lot of attention to the sport, and it’s not that bad. »

« Both parties, the FIA and McLaren, are smart enough to take responsibility and move forward. The championship was very interesting. Lewis Hamilton took part in it and made it exciting. »

Furthermore, Andretti sees in his grandson Marco a future F1 driver with a promising career. He indeed tested a Honda Racing car last year.

« He must be in F1. That’s where he needs to be. He has the talent and the style. »

« He has his moments of brilliance because he has the ability to transcend himself during important events. In Jerez, during an F1 testing session in February 2006 and under pouring rain, he looked good. In wet conditions, he is very effective. »

« Marco needs to truly know his desires. I know the discipline in which he would like to be, and I am convinced he can do it, » concluded Mario Andretti.