F1 CEO Reveals Timeline for Cadillac's Exciting Entry into the Sport

F1 CEO Reveals Timeline for Cadillac’s Exciting Entry into the Sport

Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has provided a major update on the anticipated arrival of a new American team on the grid. This new outfit, backed by General Motors and branded under Cadillac, is on track to join F1, with final formalities nearly complete.

For a while, Andretti Racing was expected to be the next addition to Formula 1, but the bid faced resistance. However, with the involvement of General Motors and Cadillac, the project gained significant credibility and was officially approved at the end of 2023. The team will begin competing in 2026, initially using Ferrari engines for the first two seasons before switching to in-house General Motors power units in 2028.

Mario Andretti, a legendary name in motorsport, serves as an advisor for the project. He recently shed light on the team’s progress, including the timeline for announcing its driver lineup. IndyCar star Colton Herta has emerged as a strong favorite for a seat, given his experience and American roots.

Final Formalities Before Official Entry

During a recent Liberty Media conference call, Domenicali confirmed that the final steps of Cadillac’s F1 entry are nearly complete. While official approval has yet to be fully formalized, he emphasized that the process is in its final stages.

“There is the formality that is related to the process that is almost ready,” Domenicali stated. “Together with the FIA, there has to be an update, and once that is done, there will be an official announcement.” He further assured that Cadillac’s entry is effectively confirmed and that the team will be ready to compete against other F1 teams from the 2026 season.

Originally, the proposal for an 11th team, led by Andretti, was rejected by Formula One Management (FOM) in early 2024. At the time, the bid was deemed to lack sufficient value for the sport. However, with the restructured entry that includes Cadillac and General Motors, the outlook changed significantly. Domenicali noted that the latest version of the bid was much more robust, ultimately leading to its approval.

Cadillac’s Ambitions in F1

Domenicali acknowledged the significance of Cadillac’s entry and its potential impact on F1. “We always said that Cadillac would bring an incredible boost to the Formula 1 ecosystem,” he explained. “The situation before was different, but now the overall picture has changed completely.”

He also highlighted the challenges Cadillac will face as it integrates into the highly competitive and technologically advanced world of F1. “They are doing everything necessary to prepare for their debut. It’s not easy to enter such a complex and high-tech sport, but Cadillac is demonstrating a strong commitment.”

One of the key factors in the acceptance of Cadillac’s bid was General Motors’ long-term investment in F1, not just as a branding exercise but as a full-fledged manufacturer. Domenicali emphasized that GM is not simply entering F1 for visibility but is genuinely committed to the technological advancements the sport offers.

“GM wants to be a real constructor, a manufacturer that invests in our sport because they believe in the technological platform that F1 provides,” he said. “I’m very happy that this project is moving forward, and I’m looking forward to seeing them on the grid, competing with the other teams in what will be an exciting championship.”

With formal approval expected soon, Cadillac’s arrival marks a significant milestone for both American motorsport and F1’s continued expansion in the U.S. The team’s entry will bring fresh competition to the grid, and with the backing of a major automotive powerhouse, expectations are high for their debut in 2026.