Cadillac Set to Join Formula 1 as 11th Team in 2026

Cadillac, under General Motors (GM), is set to join Formula 1 in 2026 after reaching “an agreement in principle” with the sport’s governing bodies. This marks a significant moment for the global motorsport industry, as the American automaker becomes the 11th team on the grid.

The entry underscores Formula 1’s growing presence in the United States and its increasing global appeal. This development follows the rejection of an earlier joint bid with Andretti Global, led by Michael Andretti, son of 1978 world champion Mario Andretti.

Key Details of the Agreement:

• Timeline: Cadillac’s F1 debut is scheduled for the 2026 season.
• Headquarters: Operations will be based in the United States, supported by an engineering hub in the United Kingdom.
• Regulatory Compliance: The entry aligns with the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA)’s sustainability goals, leveraging hybrid technology and GM’s innovation in electric and clean energy.

Challenges and Evolution of the Entry Bid

Initially, GM and Andretti Global collaborated on a proposal to enter Formula 1, combining Andretti’s motorsport experience with Cadillac’s automotive legacy. However, concerns about the value addition and competitiveness of the joint bid led to its rejection earlier this year.

GM subsequently pursued an independent entry, restructuring its approach to meet Formula 1’s stringent requirements. The revised agreement positions Cadillac as the lead brand, supported by TWG Global, an investment firm led by Dan Towriss. Notably, Andretti Global is no longer part of this arrangement, although Mario Andretti is reportedly taking on an ambassadorial role.

Technical and Strategic Overview

For its debut in 2026, Cadillac will utilise Ferrari engines, ensuring competitiveness while it establishes infrastructure. Looking ahead, GM has registered with the FIA as a Formula 1 power unit manufacturer and plans to develop its own engines by 2028, highlighting its long-term commitment to the sport.

Cadillac’s operations will be anchored in the United States, with a secondary engineering hub in the United Kingdom to meet Formula 1’s technical and performance demands. This dual-location model reflects GM’s strategy to blend global engineering excellence with a strong U.S. presence.

Cadillac and the U.S. Market

Cadillac’s entry comes at a pivotal time for Formula 1 in the United States, which now hosts races in Austin, Miami, and Las Vegas. The addition of a major American brand enhances the sport’s visibility in a key market and bolsters its appeal to U.S. automotive and commercial partners.

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem praised the decision, stating that Cadillac’s entry demonstrates Formula 1’s ability to attract prestigious global brands while advancing its sustainability objectives.

Cadillac’s participation represents a significant step in Formula 1’s continued growth, both in the United States and globally.

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