By rikififi90 
Formula 1 took a historic step on Friday, March 7, by officially announcing Cadillac as the 11th team on the grid starting in the 2026 season. The decision, jointly revealed by the International Automobile Federation (FIA) and the championship itself, ends a negotiation process that began in 2022 and strengthens the sport’s expansion in the United States. The entry of the team, linked to automotive giant General Motors, aligns with one of the most significant regulatory overhauls in F1 history, promising faster, more sustainable cars tailored to a new era of motorsport. The announcement was hailed as a transformative milestone, bringing an iconic brand to the paddock and increasing the number of teams on the grid for the first time in a decade.
Although the preliminary agreement was disclosed in November 2024, formal approval hinged on technical, sporting, and commercial evaluations by the FIA and Formula 1. Cadillac, in partnership with TWG Motorsports, outshone six other candidates in the initial stages, emerging as the only one to meet all required standards. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA president, emphasized that the team’s arrival not only expands the championship but also aligns with the 2026 regulations, which prioritize innovation and sustainability. The expectation is that General Motors’ presence will bring substantial investment and inspire a new generation of fans and competitors.
The impact of Cadillac extends beyond symbolism. The team is planning a significant financial commitment, including the construction of a factory in the United States and ambitions to develop its own engines in the medium term. Meanwhile, the championship prepares to introduce the 2026 cars, which will ditch the DRS in favor of a manual overtaking system, alongside designs aimed at reducing environmental impact. This confluence of factors positions Formula 1 at a turning point, with Cadillac as a key player in a narrative blending automotive heritage with technological modernization.
A new chapter begins as the Cadillac Formula 1™ Team officially joins the FIA Formula One World Championship for the 2026 season.@F1 | @Cadillac | @GM pic.twitter.com/i2V4Qy4wZA
— CadillacFormulaOne (@Cadillac_F1) March 7, 2025
Cadillac arrives with strength and bold plans
Cadillac’s entry into Formula 1 marks a milestone for American motorsport, which will now boast a second team on the grid alongside Haas. Tied to General Motors, the largest U.S. automaker, the team will be managed by TWG Motorsports, a company already partnered with Andretti in categories like IndyCar and Formula E. The project, initially branded under the Andretti name, faced twists and turns over the past two years. In 2024, the bid was rejected by F1 despite FIA approval, but a leadership shift at Andretti Global and a focus on the Cadillac brand reversed the outcome, leading to the official green light.
For 2026, Cadillac is laying out ambitious plans. Documents released in February by the city of Concord, North Carolina, indicate the team intends to invest between $140 million and $155 million to build a local factory. The facility will house two major projects: an engine development area, costing between $75 million and $85 million, and another for team operations. Construction is set to begin in the first quarter of this year and extend through 2027, when Cadillac aims to transition from Ferrari power units, used in its debut, to its own engines. This investment signals a long-term commitment to the championship.
The driver lineup remains undecided, but names are starting to emerge. Mario Andretti, the 1978 F1 champion and future team director, hinted that prioritizing an American driver is key. Colton Herta, the 2024 IndyCar runner-up with Andretti, is the frontrunner for one seat, bringing youth and talent to the squad. The second seat is earmarked for a more experienced driver, not necessarily American, with an announcement expected by mid-2025. This approach reflects Cadillac’s aim to balance renewal and stability in its debut.
New regulations pave the way for transformation
Starting in 2026, Formula 1 will roll out sweeping changes to its cars, and Cadillac’s arrival is closely tied to this revolution. The new technical regulations will introduce smaller, lighter vehicles designed for greater energy efficiency, powered by 100% sustainable fuels. One of the most talked-about shifts is the replacement of DRS with a manual overtaking device, promising more dynamic and competitive races. These innovations were crafted to attract new teams and manufacturers like General Motors, which see F1 as a platform to test cutting-edge technology.
The expansion to 11 teams also mirrors the championship’s global growth, particularly in the United States, where F1 already hosts three annual GPs: Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas. Cadillac’s presence reinforces this trend, bringing a brand with strong local appeal and a storied automotive legacy. The last time the grid featured 11 teams was in 2016, before Manor’s exit, and the jump to 22 cars in 2026 is expected to heighten competition for points and positions, challenging established teams.
Cadillac’s preparations include a detailed timeline:
- Factory construction begins: First quarter of 2025, in Concord, North Carolina.
- Grid debut: 2026 season, with Ferrari engines.
- Own engines: Planned for 2028, following development completion at the new base.
- Driver announcement: Slated for mid-2025, targeting Colton Herta and a veteran.
This meticulous planning underscores that Cadillac isn’t just joining F1 to compete—it aims to leave a lasting mark on the sport.
Road to approval filled with twists
Behind the scenes, Cadillac’s path to Formula 1 was a rollercoaster. It began in 2022 when Michael Andretti, a former driver and son of Mario Andretti, spearheaded a bid to bring Andretti Global into the championship alongside General Motors. The proposal gained traction in 2023, earning initial FIA approval, but hit a wall in January 2024 when Formula 1 rejected it, arguing it wouldn’t add enough value to the series. The setback frustrated the American outfit.
The tide turned in September 2024 when Michael Andretti stepped down from Andretti Global, handing control to Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Global. Under new leadership, the bid was reframed, spotlighting the Cadillac brand over Andretti. This strategic pivot, coupled with alignment to the 2026 regulations, swayed F1 to reconsider. Mario Andretti, still a pivotal figure, will serve as team director, preserving the family’s influence.
From the preliminary agreement in November 2024 to the official confirmation, Cadillac underwent a rigorous evaluation process. The FIA noted that it was the only one of seven contenders to fully meet the criteria, cementing its spot as the grid’s newest force. This resolution caps a two-year saga and paves the way for a stronger American presence in elite motorsport.
Investment and future expectations
With approval secured, Cadillac is mobilizing resources to compete at the highest level. The initial investment of up to $155 million in the Concord factory is just the start. The facility will feature state-of-the-art technology to develop engines and optimize car performance, targeting a switch to in-house power units by 2028. Until then, the Ferrari partnership ensures a competitive debut package, giving the team time to refine its engineering.
Choosing Concord as its base reflects a strategy of proximity to the U.S. market, where Formula 1’s audience is growing. The city, a hub for NASCAR facilities, is now gearing up for a global-scale project, with an economic impact projected in the millions. Cadillac also plans to leverage its experience in categories like IMSA, where General Motors already excels, to fast-track its F1 adaptation.
Meanwhile, the 2026 grid takes shape. Haas, the sole U.S.-based team until now, will face heavyweight competition, and the rivalry between the two could spice up races on American soil. Cadillac arrives promising innovation, backed by General Motors’ legacy and TWG Motorsports’ expertise, at a time when Formula 1 seeks to solidify its global relevance.
What to expect from Cadillac in F1
The 2026 season will usher in a new era for Formula 1, and Cadillac is at the heart of this shift. With a multimillion-dollar investment and a U.S.-based operation, the team is poised to establish itself as a serious contender. The Ferrari partnership for its debut provides a strong foundation, while in-house engine development signals bigger ambitions ahead. Mario Andretti’s championship experience will be a valuable asset in building a competitive outfit from day one.
Key highlights of Cadillac’s preparation include:
- Focus on local talent: Colton Herta is the top pick to represent the U.S.
- Cutting-edge facility: The Concord factory will be among the most advanced in motorsport.
- Sustainability: In line with new regulations, the team will invest in green tech.
- F1 expansion: The 11th team bolsters the championship’s reach in key markets.
Cadillac’s arrival could also shake up the driver market. If Herta is confirmed, he’d be the first American on the grid since Alexander Rossi in 2015, reigniting local interest. The hunt for a veteran opens the door to seasoned names like Kevin Magnussen or Valtteri Bottas, depending on their 2026 availability.
With 11 teams and 22 cars, the 2026 Formula 1 grid will be the fullest since 2016, promising tighter, more unpredictable races. Cadillac, blending tradition and innovation, has the potential not just to compete, but to reshape the sport’s competitive landscape.
Formula 1 took a historic step on Friday, March 7, by officially announcing Cadillac as the 11th team on the grid starting in the 2026 season. The decision, jointly revealed by the International Automobile Federation (FIA) and the championship itself, ends a negotiation process that began in 2022 and strengthens the sport’s expansion in the United States. The entry of the team, linked to automotive giant General Motors, aligns with one of the most significant regulatory overhauls in F1 history, promising faster, more sustainable cars tailored to a new era of motorsport. The announcement was hailed as a transformative milestone, bringing an iconic brand to the paddock and increasing the number of teams on the grid for the first time in a decade.
Although the preliminary agreement was disclosed in November 2024, formal approval hinged on technical, sporting, and commercial evaluations by the FIA and Formula 1. Cadillac, in partnership with TWG Motorsports, outshone six other candidates in the initial stages, emerging as the only one to meet all required standards. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, FIA president, emphasized that the team’s arrival not only expands the championship but also aligns with the 2026 regulations, which prioritize innovation and sustainability. The expectation is that General Motors’ presence will bring substantial investment and inspire a new generation of fans and competitors.
The impact of Cadillac extends beyond symbolism. The team is planning a significant financial commitment, including the construction of a factory in the United States and ambitions to develop its own engines in the medium term. Meanwhile, the championship prepares to introduce the 2026 cars, which will ditch the DRS in favor of a manual overtaking system, alongside designs aimed at reducing environmental impact. This confluence of factors positions Formula 1 at a turning point, with Cadillac as a key player in a narrative blending automotive heritage with technological modernization.
A new chapter begins as the Cadillac Formula 1™ Team officially joins the FIA Formula One World Championship for the 2026 season.@F1 | @Cadillac | @GM pic.twitter.com/i2V4Qy4wZA
— CadillacFormulaOne (@Cadillac_F1) March 7, 2025
Cadillac arrives with strength and bold plans
Cadillac’s entry into Formula 1 marks a milestone for American motorsport, which will now boast a second team on the grid alongside Haas. Tied to General Motors, the largest U.S. automaker, the team will be managed by TWG Motorsports, a company already partnered with Andretti in categories like IndyCar and Formula E. The project, initially branded under the Andretti name, faced twists and turns over the past two years. In 2024, the bid was rejected by F1 despite FIA approval, but a leadership shift at Andretti Global and a focus on the Cadillac brand reversed the outcome, leading to the official green light.
For 2026, Cadillac is laying out ambitious plans. Documents released in February by the city of Concord, North Carolina, indicate the team intends to invest between $140 million and $155 million to build a local factory. The facility will house two major projects: an engine development area, costing between $75 million and $85 million, and another for team operations. Construction is set to begin in the first quarter of this year and extend through 2027, when Cadillac aims to transition from Ferrari power units, used in its debut, to its own engines. This investment signals a long-term commitment to the championship.
The driver lineup remains undecided, but names are starting to emerge. Mario Andretti, the 1978 F1 champion and future team director, hinted that prioritizing an American driver is key. Colton Herta, the 2024 IndyCar runner-up with Andretti, is the frontrunner for one seat, bringing youth and talent to the squad. The second seat is earmarked for a more experienced driver, not necessarily American, with an announcement expected by mid-2025. This approach reflects Cadillac’s aim to balance renewal and stability in its debut.
New regulations pave the way for transformation
Starting in 2026, Formula 1 will roll out sweeping changes to its cars, and Cadillac’s arrival is closely tied to this revolution. The new technical regulations will introduce smaller, lighter vehicles designed for greater energy efficiency, powered by 100% sustainable fuels. One of the most talked-about shifts is the replacement of DRS with a manual overtaking device, promising more dynamic and competitive races. These innovations were crafted to attract new teams and manufacturers like General Motors, which see F1 as a platform to test cutting-edge technology.
The expansion to 11 teams also mirrors the championship’s global growth, particularly in the United States, where F1 already hosts three annual GPs: Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas. Cadillac’s presence reinforces this trend, bringing a brand with strong local appeal and a storied automotive legacy. The last time the grid featured 11 teams was in 2016, before Manor’s exit, and the jump to 22 cars in 2026 is expected to heighten competition for points and positions, challenging established teams.
Cadillac’s preparations include a detailed timeline:
- Factory construction begins: First quarter of 2025, in Concord, North Carolina.
- Grid debut: 2026 season, with Ferrari engines.
- Own engines: Planned for 2028, following development completion at the new base.
- Driver announcement: Slated for mid-2025, targeting Colton Herta and a veteran.
This meticulous planning underscores that Cadillac isn’t just joining F1 to compete—it aims to leave a lasting mark on the sport.
Road to approval filled with twists
Behind the scenes, Cadillac’s path to Formula 1 was a rollercoaster. It began in 2022 when Michael Andretti, a former driver and son of Mario Andretti, spearheaded a bid to bring Andretti Global into the championship alongside General Motors. The proposal gained traction in 2023, earning initial FIA approval, but hit a wall in January 2024 when Formula 1 rejected it, arguing it wouldn’t add enough value to the series. The setback frustrated the American outfit.
The tide turned in September 2024 when Michael Andretti stepped down from Andretti Global, handing control to Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Global. Under new leadership, the bid was reframed, spotlighting the Cadillac brand over Andretti. This strategic pivot, coupled with alignment to the 2026 regulations, swayed F1 to reconsider. Mario Andretti, still a pivotal figure, will serve as team director, preserving the family’s influence.
From the preliminary agreement in November 2024 to the official confirmation, Cadillac underwent a rigorous evaluation process. The FIA noted that it was the only one of seven contenders to fully meet the criteria, cementing its spot as the grid’s newest force. This resolution caps a two-year saga and paves the way for a stronger American presence in elite motorsport.
Investment and future expectations
With approval secured, Cadillac is mobilizing resources to compete at the highest level. The initial investment of up to $155 million in the Concord factory is just the start. The facility will feature state-of-the-art technology to develop engines and optimize car performance, targeting a switch to in-house power units by 2028. Until then, the Ferrari partnership ensures a competitive debut package, giving the team time to refine its engineering.
Choosing Concord as its base reflects a strategy of proximity to the U.S. market, where Formula 1’s audience is growing. The city, a hub for NASCAR facilities, is now gearing up for a global-scale project, with an economic impact projected in the millions. Cadillac also plans to leverage its experience in categories like IMSA, where General Motors already excels, to fast-track its F1 adaptation.
Meanwhile, the 2026 grid takes shape. Haas, the sole U.S.-based team until now, will face heavyweight competition, and the rivalry between the two could spice up races on American soil. Cadillac arrives promising innovation, backed by General Motors’ legacy and TWG Motorsports’ expertise, at a time when Formula 1 seeks to solidify its global relevance.
What to expect from Cadillac in F1
The 2026 season will usher in a new era for Formula 1, and Cadillac is at the heart of this shift. With a multimillion-dollar investment and a U.S.-based operation, the team is poised to establish itself as a serious contender. The Ferrari partnership for its debut provides a strong foundation, while in-house engine development signals bigger ambitions ahead. Mario Andretti’s championship experience will be a valuable asset in building a competitive outfit from day one.
Key highlights of Cadillac’s preparation include:
- Focus on local talent: Colton Herta is the top pick to represent the U.S.
- Cutting-edge facility: The Concord factory will be among the most advanced in motorsport.
- Sustainability: In line with new regulations, the team will invest in green tech.
- F1 expansion: The 11th team bolsters the championship’s reach in key markets.
Cadillac’s arrival could also shake up the driver market. If Herta is confirmed, he’d be the first American on the grid since Alexander Rossi in 2015, reigniting local interest. The hunt for a veteran opens the door to seasoned names like Kevin Magnussen or Valtteri Bottas, depending on their 2026 availability.
With 11 teams and 22 cars, the 2026 Formula 1 grid will be the fullest since 2016, promising tighter, more unpredictable races. Cadillac, blending tradition and innovation, has the potential not just to compete, but to reshape the sport’s competitive landscape.
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