Formula 1 welcomes GM and Cadillac as a new team: American automotive giant enters the Grand Prix stage

Formula 1 has announced the inclusion of General Motors (GM) and Cadillac as a new team in the racing circuit. This decision brings one of the most well-known American automobile manufacturers into the top tier of motorsport events. The initiative results from an application by the Andretti Global racing team and is making waves in the Formula 1 world. The entry of the American brand could give fresh impetus to the rapidly growing US market and comes just two days after the Las Vegas Grand Prix. In an official statement, Formula 1 declared that it had 'reached a preliminary agreement with General Motors (GM) to support the inclusion of GM/Cadillac as the eleventh team in the Formula 1 racing series in 2026.' The highly anticipated decision follows a year-long struggle, marked by drama and tensions. Andretti Global had initially applied for entry into the racing calendar and received approval from the FIA, the global governing body of motorsport. However, the commercially driven side of Formula 1, led by Liberty Media, initially hesitated, as there were doubts about Andretti's ability to bring sufficient value and competitiveness to the series. A crucial breakthrough was finally achieved with GM's commitment to becoming a 'works' team, developing both the car and power unit itself. 'Formula 1 has engaged in dialogue with General Motors and its partners at TWG Global'—which now controls Andretti Global—'regarding the entry capability, following the commercial assessment and decision made in January 2024,' it continued. 'Throughout this year, they have reached operational milestones and demonstrated their commitment to the eleventh team, GM/Cadillac. GM will join as an engine supplier at a later date. Formula 1 is therefore pleased to continue this application process and will provide further updates shortly.' General Motors announced plans to develop its own power unit by the end of the decade, without specifying an exact date. 'Formula 1 demands innovation and excellence at its boundaries. For General Motors and Cadillac, it is an honor to become part of this leading racing series. We are dedicated to competing with passion and integrity and enriching the sport for fans worldwide,' GM President Mark Reuss emphasized proudly. 'This is a global stage where we can demonstrate GM's engineering expertise and technological leadership on an entirely new level.' Former Formula 1 champion Mario Andretti, the head of the Andretti racing family, will serve as a director on the team's board. 'My first love was Formula 1, and even 70 years later, the F1 paddock is my happy place. I am absolutely thrilled about Cadillac, Formula 1, Mark Walter, and Dan Towriss,' Andretti stated. 'To still be part of it at this stage of life—sometimes I have to pinch myself to make sure I'm not dreaming.'