We could’ve had an American on the grid next year. However, due to the FIA’s super license point system, that possibility has vanished into thin air. But it seems the 1978 F1 Champion, Mario Andretti, has held onto his grudge against the FIA for denying Colton Herta a chance to ply his trade in Formula 1 next year.

Colton Herta is the poster boy of IndyCar right now. He was the top priority for AlphaTauri to replace the outgoing Pierre Gasly for 2023. However, due to the super license system of the FIA, and him not having the requisite points, the American has had to put his F1 dreams on hold, at least for now.

Mario Andretti was at Laguna Seca last weekend, trying out an older spec McLaren F1 car in a dream run. However, when he was asked about the whole Herta-FIA super license scenario, his response showed exactly what he felt about the whole fiasco. He took a slight dig at the FIA saying, “I’m trying to get some points for my super license.”

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We might not see an American Formula 1 driver on the F1 grid in 2023. However, this isn’t for a lack of trying. As things stand, two American racing drivers will get a chance to showcase their talents on the biggest motorsports platform ever during the remaining races of 2022.

Two IndyCar superstars to get a crack at the McLaren Formula 1 car in Austin and Abu Dhabi

At the United States Grand Prix and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, both Alex Palou and Pato O’Ward will get to drive the 2022 McLaren F1 car, respectively. Both young chargers will get the opportunity to jump into the MCL36 for FP1 sessions during the aforementioned races.

When asked, Palou said, “I’m so excited to be making my F1 weekend debut. It’s great to be driving in the United States in front of fans that may have seen me race in IndyCar.”

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Naturally, O’Ward was ecstatic too.  He said, “I can’t wait to get out on track in Abu Dhabi. I’ve developed as a driver and had a lot of fun testing last year’s car with the team, so it will be a great experience to drive the MCL36. Thank you McLaren F1 for the opportunity.”

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Will we see an American World Champion again in Formula 1?