General Motors’ Cadillac will enter Formula 1 in 2026 after securing formal approval, marking a major shift in the sport’s competitive landscape

General Motors has secured its Formula 1 entry for the 2026 season, with the team set to compete under the Cadillac name. The approval comes after an initial rejection of a bid linked to Andretti Global. A revised proposal, featuring a stronger long-term commitment and a planned engine programme, convinced Formula 1 and the FIA to grant Cadillac a place on the grid.

The team will operate in partnership with TWG, with Dan Towriss and Mark Walter as key investors. Its operational hub will be based at Silverstone in the UK. The project will not involve Michael Andretti, who was initially part of the bid, though his father, 1978 world champion Mario Andretti, will take on an advisory role.

A commitment to eventually becoming a full works team, along with an interim engine supply deal with Ferrari, played a key role in the bid’s success. Unlike previous applicants who sought to rely on F1’s compulsory supplier regulations, Cadillac secured its own arrangements, reinforcing its long-term investment in the sport.

The US Department of Justice’s investigation into Formula 1’s earlier decision to reject Andretti’s bid also influenced the discussions. FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem described the final approval as a transformative moment, while F1 president Stefano Domenicali praised GM’s commitment as a positive evolution for the sport.

New engine regulations set for 2026 have attracted multiple manufacturers, including Ford, Audi, and Honda. The revised power unit rules will increase the hybrid component to 50% and mandate the use of sustainable fuels. Ford will partner with Red Bull Powertrains, Audi has acquired Sauber and will rebrand the team, while Honda has reversed its decision to leave F1 and will instead become Aston Martin’s factory engine supplier. Renault has opted to end its long-running engine programme, with Alpine switching to Mercedes power from next season.

Dan Towriss confirmed that preparations for the Cadillac entry are already ramping up. Work is underway to expand facilities, refine technological development, and assemble a competitive team. With Formula 1’s growing presence in the US through races in Austin, Miami, and Las Vegas, the addition of a Cadillac-backed team is expected to strengthen the sport’s appeal in North America.