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Cadillac Secures Entry into F1 for 2026 Season
The upcoming 2026 Formula 1 season will officially welcome the Cadillac team, following approval from both the FIA and Formula 1. This exciting news expands the F1 grid to 11 teams as General Motors’ luxury brand enters the world of elite motorsport.
Last November, Cadillac announced its plans to join F1 after reaching an agreement in principle that ties its entry to a broader strategy by GM, in collaboration with TWG Motorsports. This initiative involves GM’s commitment to developing its own engines by the end of the decade.
To prepare for its inaugural season, the Cadillac team has made arrangements to utilize Ferrari’s power unit and gearbox, a partnership that was confirmed in December. In tandem with this, GM has launched its dedicated engine division to focus on creating its first Formula 1 power unit.
A concise statement released by the FIA and Formula 1 confirmed the project: “Following comprehensive assessments of their sporting, technical, and commercial plans, the application by General Motors and TWG Motorsports to introduce a Cadillac team in the FIA Formula One World Championship from 2026 has been approved.”
Stefano Domenicali, president of F1, expressed enthusiasm about Cadillac’s commitment, highlighting it as a pivotal moment in the sport’s evolution. He thanked both GM and TWG for their collaborative efforts over the preceding months and looks forward to the team’s debut in 2026, which promises to be a thrilling year for motorsport enthusiasts.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized the significance of this announcement, describing it as a momentous occasion for the championship. He stated, “The expansion to an 11th team is a milestone for the FIA Formula One Championship. GM/Cadillac’s involvement introduces new energy and aligns with the upcoming 2026 regulations, heralding a refreshing era for the sport.” He believes that the presence of Cadillac in the paddock will inspire both future competitors and fans alike, enhancing motorsport’s appeal at the highest level.
Dan Towriss, the chief executive of TWG Motorsports, which oversees various motorsport endeavors worldwide, is set to lead the Cadillac team. Graeme Lowdon, the former sporting director for Marussia, has been appointed as team principal.
The Road Ahead for Cadillac
Despite an initial rejection of an earlier bid for an Andretti-branded entry with GM backing, Cadillac’s revised proposal left space for future consideration, particularly due to GM’s increased commitment to developing its own engine and securing a customer engine agreement for the immediate future. Mario Andretti, a legend in American motorsport and a world champion, continues to serve as an advisor on the project.
Driver Aspirations for the New Team
Among those being considered is Colton Herta, a 24-year-old talent in the IndyCar series, who has already celebrated multiple victories in the United States. Towriss remarked on the significance of selecting an American driver, asserting the goal of ensuring that any driver is set up for success rather than being appointed simply for their nationality. He noted, “An experienced driver is essential for the establishment of a new team, and we are keenly assessing candidates with relevant experience.” He hinted that various American drivers familiar with lower-tier Formula series are being considered for roles within the team.
Moreover, Mario Andretti echoed this sentiment, indicating a strong desire for at least one American driver in the lineup, which is central to the initiative’s vision. He stated, “We hope to start with an American driver alongside a very experienced driver, regardless of nationality.”
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Source
www.skysports.com