Formula 1 has officially confirmed General Motors F1 entry as the 11th team on the grid with its Cadillac brand set to debut in the 2026 season.
The huge announcement made on Monday marks a pivotal moment for both F1 and the American automotive industry, as it brings a major manufacturer back into the fold of elite motorsport after years of absence.
Formula 1 confirmed that it has reached an “agreement in principle” with General Motors to initially enter Cadillac F1 as a customer team in 2026 season while being committed to become an engine supplier by the end of the decade.
The commitment from GM and Cadillac is seen as a pivotal step in diversifying the teams within the sport and boosting its appeal to American audiences. However, the journey to the agreement has been complex and fraught with challenges.
Initially, General Motors F1 entry was tied to a bid led by Andretti Global which sought to join the grid with Cadillac’s backing. However, the proposal faced rejection from Formula 1 earlier in 2024 due to concerns over its viability and potential impact on the championship.
Despite the setback discussions between the sport’s management and the American automaker continued throughout the year, focusing on how to structure a successful entry as the 11th team on the grid.
Ultimately, GM appeared to feature a more prominent role on its own and its partnership with TWG Global under the leadership of CEO Dan Towriss has now assumed control of the American motorsports operation that was previously led by Michael Andretti.
This transition has allowed for a more streamlined approach to General Motors F1 entry, with the company distancing itself from earlier complications tied to Andretti’s management.
The operational framework for the new entry will be based at a facility near Silverstone, UK, which Andretti Global had already begun developing prior to the announcement.
The formal announcement from Formula 1 highlighted that GM had achieved several operational milestones necessary for entry. This included demonstrating a clear commitment to branding the new team as Cadillac F1 and outlining plans for future engine development.
Their statement read: “Formula 1 has maintained a dialogue with General Motors, and its partners at TWG Global, regarding the viability of an entry following the commercial assessment and decision made by Formula 1 in January 2024.
“Over the course of this year, they have achieved operational milestones and made clear their commitment to brand the eleventh team GM/Cadillac, and that GM will enter as an engine supplier at a later time.
“Formula 1 is therefore pleased to move forward with this application process and will provide further updates in due course.”
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed confidence about the new development, stating that: “General Motors and Cadillac’s commitment to this project is an important and positive demonstration of the evolution of our sport.
“We look forward to seeing the progress and growth of this entry, certain of the full collaboration and support of all the parties involved.”
The addition of Cadillac is expected to attract new fans and sponsors, further solidifying Formula 1’s growth trajectory in a crucial market.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem also voiced his support for General Motors F1 entry, recognizing it as a significant addition to the grid.
“General Motors is a huge global brand and powerhouse in the OEM world and is working with impressive partners,” Ben Sulayem said.
“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 F1 team on the grid for the 2026 F1 World Championship.”
READ ALSO: General Motors F1 entry slated for approval after Andretti exit
The FIA will continue working closely with all parties involved to ensure that this entry progresses smoothly and meets all regulatory requirements.
F1 World Champion Mario Andretti who was initially associated with Andretti Global’s bid, will serve on the board of directors for the Cadillac F1 team. His extensive experience and insights are expected to be invaluable as the new team navigates its entry into one of the most competitive environments in sports.
”My first love was Formula 1 and now – 70 years later – the F1 paddock is still my happy place,” Andretti said. “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.”
The implications of General Motors F1 entry extend beyond just competition; they signal a shift towards greater diversity within the sport.
With the automaker joining the grid as Cadillac F1, there will be increased representation from American manufacturers at a time when Formula 1 is actively seeking to broaden its appeal across different markets.
The potential for cross-promotion between traditional automotive sectors and motorsport could lead to innovative partnerships and advancements in technology.
Moreover, GM’s participation is expected to enhance technological development within F1. As teams strive for performance improvements through cutting-edge engineering solutions, Cadillac’s involvement may lead to breakthroughs that benefit not only racing but also consumer automotive technologies.
This aligns with F1’s commitment to sustainability and innovation as it transitions towards hybrid power units and ultimately aims for carbon neutrality by 2030.
