Cadillac joins Formula 1 as 11th team

Cadillac has officially received approval to join the Formula 1 grid as the 11th team starting from the 2026 season. This is a huge development for both General Motors and the sport itself, as it will be bringing fresh energy and a new dimension to the championship. 

Cadillac’s entry into F1 began with a provisional agreement in November 2024, following a previous attempt by Andretti Global, which was initially rejected by Formula One Management. However, with General Motors stepping in and partnering with TWG Motorsports, the proposal gained traction. The FIA and F1 conducted extensive assessments before granting final approval, ensuring that Cadillac meets all the necessary sporting, technical, and commercial requirements.

The Cadillac F1 Team will be led by Graeme Lowdon, who had previously served as the sporting director of Marussia. The team will operate with facilities in Silverstone, Indianapolis, Charlotte, and Warren. At the start, Cadillac will use Ferrari engines and gearboxes, but plans are underway to develop its own power units by the end of the decade to achieve their plan of becoming a full works team. 

While often associated with American talent, Cadillac has earlier stated that driver selection will be based solely on merit. This approach ensures that the team will field the best possible lineup, regardless of nationality. However, there is still a possibility of an American driver joining the team if they meet the required standards. 

Cadillac’s entry into F1 is seen as growth in a positive direction for the sport, which falls into place with regulations set to come into effect in 2026. FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem described the approval as a “transformative moment.” 

For now, there’s no word on what the new team will be called official or other information like their colors and so on, all of which will be revealed before the start of the 2026 season.