Formula 1 has officially confirmed plans for an 11th team to join the grid in 2026, with Cadillac, backed by General Motors, set to make its debut.
After months of speculation, a GM-backed entry under the Cadillac brand has reached an “agreement in principle” to participate in Formula 1 from 2026. This marks a significant step forward for General Motors in its quest to enter the pinnacle of motorsport.
Cadillac/General Motors Poised for Formula 1 Entry
The iconic Cadillac brand from General Motors will join the Formula 1 grid in 2026 after securing an “agreement in principle.” This development reflects Formula 1’s ongoing commitment to expanding the sport, particularly with a focus on the United States.
The story of a potential 11th Formula 1 team began late last year when Michael Andretti’s Andretti Global organization announced its intent to compete in Formula 1.
Andretti formally entered the FIA’s tendering process, which aimed to evaluate and select new entrants.Among several applications, Andretti was the only team to pass the FIA’s rigorous assessment.
The proposal was subsequently forwarded to the commercial rights holder, Formula One Management (FOM), for further review.
Despite passing the FIA’s evaluation and securing the backing of American automotive giant General Motors, FOM ultimately rejected Andretti’s bid. However, the door remained open for GM to pursue the project independently.
Progress Despite Initial Setbacks
Following the rejection, Andretti Global began laying the groundwork for its Formula 1 aspirations. Construction commenced on facilities near Silverstone in the UK and at its U.S. campus, alongside an active recruitment drive.
Notable hires include industry veterans Graeme Lowdon and Pat Symonds, underscoring the project’s seriousness.
Undeterred by the initial setback, Michael Andretti advocated for the team’s inclusion, even appealing to U.S. Congress.
This led to an antitrust investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice into the actions of Liberty Media, Formula 1’s parent company, and its CEO, Greg Maffei.
In a surprising twist, Andretti stepped down as CEO of Andretti Global in September, with Maffei announcing that he would leave his role at the end of 2024 when his contract expires.
Meanwhile, General Motors maintained its commitment to the project. The Cadillac brand will lead the new F1 team’s identity, transitioning from an Andretti-led initiative to a GM-directed effort with Dan Towriss at the helm.
Mario Andretti Joins as Director
Mario Andretti, the 1978 Formula 1 World Champion and one of the sport’s most iconic figures, has been named a director for the new team.
Reflecting on the development, Andretti said: “My first love was Formula 1, and now – 70 years later – the F1 paddock is still my happy place.
I’m absolutely thrilled with Cadillac, Formula 1, Mark Walter, and Dan Towriss. To still be involved at this stage of my life — I have to pinch myself to make sure I’m not dreaming.”
GM’s Ambitious Vision
General Motors plans to develop its own Formula 1 power unit, aiming to establish a full works team under the Cadillac banner. This ambitious project is expected to reach completion by the end of the decade.
Formula 1, in a statement to the media, acknowledged the progress made by GM and its partners: “Due to the operational milestones and clear commitment, we are therefore pleased to move forward with this application process and will provide further details.”
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem also expressed his support, stating: “General Motors is a huge global brand and powerhouse in the OEM world and is working with impressive partners.
I am fully supportive of the efforts made by the FIA, Formula 1, GM, and the team to maintain dialogue and work towards this outcome of an agreement in principle to progress this application to bring a GM/Cadillac branded team onto the grid for the 2026 FIA Formula 1 World Championship.
All parties, including the FIA, will continue to work together to ensure the process progresses smoothly.”
Positive Reception from Formula 1 Leadership
Greg Maffei, Liberty Media’s CEO, welcomed the inclusion of General Motors and Cadillac: “With Formula 1’s continued growth plans in the US, we have always believed that welcoming an impressive US brand like GM/Cadillac to the grid and GM as a future power unit supplier could bring additional value and interest to the sport.
“We credit the leadership of General Motors and their partners with significant progress in their readiness to enter Formula 1.
We are excited to move forward with the application process for the GM/Cadillac team to enter the Championship in 2026.”
As the process advances, the addition of a Cadillac-backed team promises to increase Formula 1’s profile in the United States, aligning with the sport’s global expansion goals.
