There has been another entry submitted to FIA for a new
Formula One team for 2008, as late word out of Paris reveals that, for the first time, there could be an all-American
F1 team.
The deadline was barely met by Gurney Rahal All American Racing, due to the time difference in the United States, but the team joins DAVID RICHARDS' Prodrive and PAUL STODDART, who has already submitted an application for his new Minardi Europe Ltd. One of the new applicants could be approved by
FIA, so there would be 12 F1 teams in 2008.
A press conference is scheduled by FIA for Saturday evening at the Australian Grand Prix when all will be revealed.
In the meantime, inside sources feel that the American entry has an excellent chance for 2008 because it has a well-thought out detailed presentation, including a business plan.
AAR has submitted the previously mandatory $48 million financial bond to show faith it is a serious effort, and it is thought that the Coca-Cola Company will be the team's sponsor, the chassis would be an AAR Eagle, and the engine would be an American-built Cosworth. The team will be owned by well-known American drivers, DAN GURNEY and BOBBY RAHAL, who each raced in Formula One and are raising their sons to do likewise.
The drivers will be second generation drivers ALEX GURNEY and GRAHAM RAHAL. Young Rahal has made no secret of his F1 aspirations, and BOBBY RAHAL and Graham's manager, RICK GORNE, have been guiding his accelerated career path in that direction. Gurney has been racing sportscars and will redirect his efforts to include an intensive open-wheel schedule.
