General Motors and Cadillac Join Formula 1 as the Eleventh Team in 2026
Formula 1 is set to welcome a new American team, General Motors (GM) and Cadillac, to its grid starting in 2026. This announcement was made following an 'agreement in principle' between the automotive giant and Formula 1 organizers, confirming GM's participation after a thorough evaluation process. The decision aligns with the upcoming technical regulations that will be implemented in 2026, marking a significant milestone for the sport as it continues to expand its global footprint.
The partnership will initially see GM/Cadillac operate as a client team, with plans to evolve into a fully independent structure by 2028, potentially supported by the Andretti Global base in Silverstone, UK. Mario Andretti, the legendary 1978 F1 world champion, will serve on the board of directors for the new team, highlighting the deep-rooted connections between American motorsport and Formula 1.
Mark Reuss, CEO of GM, expressed enthusiasm about the venture, stating, "It is an honor for General Motors and Cadillac to join the elite of world racing, and we are committed to competing with passion and integrity to elevate the sport to the level of racing fans around the world." This sentiment was echoed by Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1, who praised GM's commitment as a positive evolution for the sport.
Expansion of Formula 1 in the United States
The inclusion of GM and Cadillac is part of Formula 1's broader strategy to enhance its presence in the United States, a market that has seen significant growth in recent years, particularly following the success of the Netflix series 'Drive to Survive'. The series has played a crucial role in popularizing the sport, coinciding with an increase in the number of Grand Prix events held in the U.S., which currently includes races in Austin, Miami, and Las Vegas.
Despite initial resistance from F1's management regarding the Andretti team's inclusion, recent negotiations have paved the way for GM's entry. Greg Maffei, CEO of Formula 1, noted the importance of welcoming a prestigious American brand like Cadillac, stating, "We are excited to move forward with the application process for the GM/Cadillac team to make its debut in the championship in 2026."
As Formula 1 continues to evolve, the addition of GM/Cadillac not only signifies a new chapter for the championship but also reflects the growing interest in motorsport within the American market.
