ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Michael Andretti navigated his way from his luxury yacht to the starting grid of the season-opening IndyCar race, sporting a relaxed demeanor and a more slender physique.
Andretti is enjoying his newfound freedom after retiring and passing the reins of his race team to Dan Towriss at the end of last season. No longer an official part of Andretti Global, he wore his team shirt on Sunday, but this time he didn’t position himself at a pit stand on the bustling streets of St. Petersburg.
Instead, Andretti opted for the comfort of Andretti hospitality, or perhaps he returned to his docked triple-decker yacht near Turn 10. With no responsibilities after selling his controlling interest to business partner Towriss, he basked in the freedom of a schedule-free life. Towriss, in turn, has committed to preserving the Andretti legacy within the team.
“I’m free of headaches,” Andretti chuckled, with the novelty of having no agenda still a new concept for him. “It’s unusual not knowing what to do.”
The opening race of the IndyCar season witnessed Chip Ganassi Racing’s Alex Palou secure victory, with Andretti drivers securing fifth, sixth, and 16th positions. But these results no longer troubled Andretti. At 62, he is a new grandfather, has 11-year-old twins, and is savoring a carefree lifestyle, evidenced by his relaxed attire, much to the surprise of his former employees.
Andretti admitted that running the race team held significant pressures, particularly in the recent years marked by a denied Formula 1 team opportunity and disputes with IndyCar owner Roger Penske.
Following Andretti’s decision to step back, Formula One Management approved the Cadillac F1 project for 2026, led by Towriss’s TWG Motorsports. Andretti expressed pride in the accomplishment via social media, congratulating those involved.
Mario Andretti, Michael’s father and the 1978 F1 champion, will serve as an ambassador for the Cadillac F1 team, echoing the absence of any lingering resentment towards F1 management.
Michael Andretti expressed no interest in returning to an active role, unsure which races beyond the Indianapolis 500 in May he might attend. Nervous initially about retiring, he now savors his newfound freedom.
“Before, I was constantly tense, considering the next move. Now, it’s not my concern,” Andretti reflected, adding, “I’m finding a lot more enjoyment in this lifestyle than I’d anticipated.”
