Come 2026, GM and Cadillac will make their debut at the Formula 1 starting line after spending years trying to get in. In this article, we will look into how this came to be, the backstory, and the implications following the shake-up. It promises to be an interesting time, so let’s get started!
From pit lane dreams to paddock reality
For GM, the road to Formula 1 has been anything but smooth. The journey began with the Andretti Global project, led by Michael Andretti, who had visions of launching a competitive team in partnership with GM’s Cadillac. In 2023, Andretti’s proposal passed muster with the FIA, the sport’s governing body, on technical grounds. But the money-and power-hungry Formula 1 Management slammed the door in the face of the bid, expressing worries about its competitiveness and prospective value.
The rejection of the bid made headlines. So much so that even the U.S. Congress took notice, with the House Judiciary Committee investigating F1’s decision-making process.
Everything changed drastically in 2024. After Andretti withdrew from the project, majority owner Dan Towriss took over as leader. With GM taking on a more prominent role and Cadillac upping its commitment, the bid became more than just a “PowerPoint” presentation—it became a serious contender; and now, it has definitely paid off!
Putting in the ‘Works’
So, what’s the game plan for GM? In 2026, the Cadillac F1 team will join as a customer, meaning it’ll be buying its engines from another supplier while getting its infrastructure set up. Rumour has it Ferrari is the front-runner for this partnership, which is both ironic and intriguing — Cadillac racing with a prancing horse under the hood?
However, GM has further plans. It aspires to become the inaugural American “works” team in Formula 1 by 2028 by introducing its own in-house power units. Teams like Ferrari and Mercedes-AMG are examples of works teams in motorsports because they develop and manufacture both the chassis and the engine.
What makes this a big deal?
The U.S. hasn’t exactly been a dominant force in Formula 1. Sure, there’s Haas F1, the only other American team on the grid, but it doesn’t build its own engines. Being a works squad in the competition is a huge deal for GM.
Secondly, the approaching hybrid-era regulations in Formula 1 are perfectly in rhythm with Cadillac’s debut. In 2026, the sport will transition to powertrains that combine combustion engines with electric motors, creating an ideal environment for General Motors’ electric vehicle innovation.
This isn’t just about chasing trophies; it’s a global stage to flex their technical prowess. Who’s to say that some of that cutting-edge hybrid tech won’t trickle down into Cadillac’s street cars? Watch out, Tesla and Lucid—Detroit might have something electrifying up its sleeve.
The American dream meets global ambition
Cadillac’s entry as the 11th team on the grid isn’t exactly music to the ears of the current Formula 1 line-up. More teams mean smaller slices of the sport’s lucrative revenue pie, and nobody likes a shrinking dessert. The return of F1’s growth potential much exceeds the grumbles from the paddock, thanks to Cadillac’s significant financial heft and willingness to stay for the long run.
Additionally, the dynamics of fan participation in the US could be altered by GM’s presence. Formula 1 already has a growing American audience, but a home-grown manufacturer competing at the highest level could supercharge that interest. Imagine Cadillac’s flags flying alongside Ferrari’s at circuits worldwide — everyone is looking forward to all the F1 highlights and photo finishes that GM will become a part of.
Speculating about the cars
If you’re picturing a Cadillac Formula 1 car as a blinged-out Escalade on steroids, you’re not alone. But jokes aside, GM’s engineering prowess means we can expect a serious contender, especially once its engine program is up and running. Cadillac’s racing pedigree, while not in F1, includes success in endurance racing, so don’t underestimate its ability to adapt to this fast-paced world.
What about the betting market?
Everyone loves an underdog. Make no mistake: GM will come in as the ultimate underdog, and people will want them to win. They will get favourable Formula 1 odds, and you’d best take advantage of that. The Formula 1 schedule just got a lot more exciting! Who will you be betting on?
Will Cadillac’s entry revolutionize F1?
While it’s too soon to say how competitive Cadillac will be, its entry is already shaking up the sport’s status quo. An American works team in F1 is unprecedented and could inspire other manufacturers to consider joining the grid. Could we see the likes of Ford or Tesla throwing their hats into the ring someday? Time will tell. All we know is that the coming weeks will give us more exciting Formula 1 news!
