Cadillac, in partnership with General Motors (GM) and TWG Motorsports, has officially been approved to join the Formula 1 World Championship as the new 11th team, starting in the 2026 season. This marks the first edition of a new team on the grid since Haas’ debut a decade before.
“The FIA and Formula 1 can confirm that, following the completion of their respective sporting, technical and commercial assessments, the application by General Motors and TWG Motorsports to bring a Cadillac team to the FIA Formula One World Championship from 2026 has been approved.”
@F1 on Instagram
Cadillac’s journey to the famous grid began at the start of 2023 when GM announced a partnership with Andretti Global to pursue an entry. Despite initial approval from the FIA, the bid faced resistance from existing teams and the Formula One Group, primarily due to concerns over revenue sharing and the team’s readiness.
However, November of last year saw a turning point for the future team. When TWG Global acquired Andretti Global, TWG Motorsports was established under the Cadillac name as a response. Following new leadership, the team resubmitted entry which was met with a unanimous approval from both the FIA and the Formula One Group thus paving the way for the 11th team’s successful entry into the ‘26 season.
Little has been disclosed about the car’s makeup so far; however, it has been revealed that Cadillac will utilize power units and gearboxes supplied by Ferrari as part of a multi-year agreement. This exciting collaboration gives Cadillac a good chance on the grid to establish themselves as key contenders whilst also allowing them time to develop their own technology. With plans already underway to introduce proprietary engines by the end of 2030 and a new power unit facility expected to be fully operational by 2027.
Increasing the grid to 22 drivers is undoubtedly going to enhance competition and initiative advancements to the sport, putting Formula 1 on an even bigger global stage.
So, who can we expect to see in a Cadillac seat?
Whilst there is no indication to who, new or old, we may see in a Cadillac seat, the team has expressed a strong interest in securing at least one American driver in its lineup. IndyCars Colton Herta has been mentioned multiple times as a possible candidate, sticking to the team’s aims and commitment in showcasing states born talent. From driving in F3 alongside the likes of Lando Norris to his career now in IndyCar, Herta certainly seems like a strong contender for a seat.
If you were to ask me a year ago who I think Cadillac would recruit, Sargeants name would have definitely been given thought. Though with his recent move to IndyCar and previous harsh treatment within F1 this seems unlikely. Or perhaps we may also see the return of ex fan favourite Daniel Riccardo sooner than expected, though this is of course just speculation.
“The Cadillac Formula 1 Team’s presence in the paddock will inspire future competitors and fans. Their entry strengthens our mission to push motorsport’s boundaries at the highest level.. we’re accelerating our efforts—expanding our facilities, refining cutting-edge technologies, and continuing to assemble top-tier talent.”
Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG
Cadillac’s entry signifies a broader trend of increased American involvement in Formula One, aligning with the sport’s expanding footprint in the United States. With three Grands Prix now held on American soil (Miami, Austin and Las Vegas), the addition of a US based team is expected to boost the sport’s popularity and commercial prospects in the region.
Although, little information has been given away thus far regarding the teams early days it is still of course exciting news and I for one cannot wait to see how Cadillac either excel or plummet in the ‘26 season.