Cadillac is set to join the Formula One grid as the 11th team in the 2026 season. This decision marks a significant development for the sport, especially in the context of its growing popularity in the United States. Cadillac, a brand under General Motors, will initially be powered by Ferrari engines before transitioning to its own power units in subsequent seasons.
This announcement follows a period of deliberation and negotiation, as the original bid led by Andretti faced rejection earlier in the year. While the Andretti name is no longer part of the proposal, Mario Andretti, the 1978 world champion, will serve as an ambassador for the project. His son, Michael Andretti, a former Formula One driver, will not be involved in the venture moving forward.
The decision to admit Cadillac as an 11th team reflects Formula One’s efforts to expand its presence and embrace new opportunities. The inclusion of a major American automotive brand comes at a time when the sport has seen a surge in its popularity stateside. Factors contributing to this growth include the success of the Netflix documentary series Drive to Survive and the addition of prominent U.S.-based races, such as those in Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas.
Initially, there was resistance from the existing teams about the addition of a new outfit, primarily due to concerns over prize money distribution. With the current financial structure, introducing an extra team could dilute the earnings of the ten established teams. Despite this, the proposal was ultimately approved, highlighting a willingness to embrace the potential long-term benefits of a partnership with a globally recognized brand like Cadillac.
The approval of this entry comes after a thorough evaluation process. General Motors and its partners demonstrated their commitment to the project by achieving significant operational milestones. This included ensuring the viability of their entry and emphasizing their intent to brand the team under Cadillac while committing to developing their engine technology in the future.
Formula One’s popularity in the United States has been on the rise, aided by the strategic inclusion of more American races and greater visibility of the sport among mainstream audiences. The Las Vegas Grand Prix, held just days before the announcement, was the third U.S.-based race on the calendar, underscoring the nation’s increasing importance to the sport’s growth strategy. The combination of high-profile events, media exposure, and now the entry of an iconic American brand positions Formula One for further expansion in the U.S. market.
The governing body of Formula One, the FIA, has been a vocal supporter of expanding the grid and adding more manufacturers to the sport. The FIA president praised General Motors as a global powerhouse and highlighted the collaboration among various stakeholders to bring the project to fruition. The president also reaffirmed the FIA’s commitment to ensuring the seamless progression of the application process.
Looking ahead, the introduction of Cadillac promises to bring new dynamics to the sport. The team’s initial partnership with Ferrari for engine supply provides a competitive starting point while allowing time for the development of proprietary power units. This phased approach ensures that the team can establish itself on the grid and compete effectively from the outset.
The move also reflects broader trends in Formula One, where manufacturers are playing an increasingly central role. As the sport transitions to new regulations and technologies, the participation of prominent automakers like General Motors can drive innovation and increase competition.
For fans and stakeholders, the addition of Cadillac represents an exciting chapter. It brings fresh energy to the grid and deepens the connection between Formula One and one of its fastest-growing markets. As the team prepares for its 2026 debut, anticipation is likely to build around how this venture will shape the landscape of Formula One in the coming years.
