Just In: F1 announces 11th team to join grid as field expanded to…read more
F1 announces 11th team to join grid as field expanded to…read more
Formula 1 has officially announced the addition of an 11th team to the grid starting from the 2026 season. This exciting development comes through a partnership with General Motors (GM), one of the world’s leading automotive manufacturers. The new team will compete under the GM/Cadillac brand and aims to bring a fresh dynamic to the sport.
The American motorsport legend Mario Andretti, a former Formula 1 world champion, will play a significant role in the team’s operations. Andretti is set to serve on the board, adding invaluable experience and insight to the fledgling outfit. His involvement not only underscores the seriousness of the project but also emphasizes its deep ties to motorsport heritage.
The decision follows months of speculation and a previously rejected application. Initially, GM and its partner Andretti Global faced setbacks in their bid to join the grid. However, the consortium has since made significant progress, meeting key operational benchmarks that demonstrate their readiness to compete at the highest level. In a statement, Formula 1 acknowledged the group’s determination, noting their achievement of “operational milestones” and their firm commitment to establishing the GM/Cadillac brand as a competitive force in the sport.
The inclusion of a new team will increase the number of drivers on the grid from 20 to 22, marking a significant expansion in a sport that has long maintained a limited field. This move aligns with Formula 1’s broader goals of global growth, heightened competition, and attracting fresh investment. The partnership with GM, a powerhouse in the automotive industry, signals a significant step in fostering American involvement in a sport traditionally dominated by European manufacturers.
GM’s entry is expected to bring considerable technological innovation and financial clout to the grid. The Cadillac brand, synonymous with luxury and performance, will likely become a key marketing asset as Formula 1 continues to grow its presence in the United States. With races like the Miami and Las Vegas Grands Prix already boosting the sport’s American fan base, the arrival of a U.S.-based team is set to further amplify its appeal.
As Formula 1 gears up for this expansion, fans and experts alike will be keen to see how the GM/Cadillac team develops its operations and what impact it will have on the competitive landscape of the sport.