Prepare for 23-inch chrome wheels and a set of brilliant tailfins: Cadillac looks officially set to join the Formula One grid in 2026.
Both F1 and General Motors have agreed a deal for the American carmaker to join as the 11th team, building its very own power unit by 2028 in a bid to become a full ‘works’ operation.
It’ll be the first all-new team on the grid since Haas joined in 2016.
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You’ll remember that Andretti Global—then led by ex-F1 driver Michael Andretti—had been campaigning hard for an entry in partnership with GM since the beginning of 2023, following FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s decision to open up the 20-car grid.
Andretti’s bid was rejected at the beginning of this year, prompting an investigation by the Department of Justice. While it was no secret the other teams were uncomfortable with another entry—and dilution of prize money—F1 rights holder Liberty Media was open to a new team in the right circumstances.
This time the proposal is a GM-owned team that will be branded up as Cadillac, with investment coming from TWG Global, whose CEO Dan Towriss took control of Andretti Global in September.
Looks like that’s done the trick: From 2026, it’ll be a 22-car grid.
Michael's father Mario Andretti—who just happens to be the 1978 Formula One world champion—will apparently serve as a director on the new team’s board and suffice to say, the big man’s happy.
“My first love was Formula One and now—70 years later—the F1 paddock is still my happy place,” the 84-year old former racer said. “To still be involved at this stage of my life—I have to pinch myself to make sure I’m not dreaming.”
FIA president Mohammed 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 branded team on the grid for the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship.
“All parties, including the FIA, will continue to work together to ensure the process progresses smoothly.”
Speaking of all parties, GM boss Mark Reuss had this to say: “It’s an honor for General Motors and Cadillac to join the world’s premier racing series, and we’re committed to competing with passion and integrity to elevate the sport for race fans around the world.”
Formula One boss Stefano Domenicali added: “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 application, certain of the full collaboration and support of all the parties involved.”
We’re also looking forward to seeing how Caddy incorporates a set of rad tailfins on the 2026 car…
NOTE: This article first appeared on TopGear.com. Minor edits have been made.
