Formula 1 Announces Agreement with General Motors to Bring Cadillac to the Grid in 2026

In a groundbreaking development for the future of Formula 1, the sport has officially announced an agreement in principle with General Motors (GM) to bring GM’s Cadillac brand as the 11th team to the Formula 1 grid in 2026. This move marks a major milestone in F1’s ongoing expansion and its push to grow the sport’s global appeal, both on and off the track.

The news comes after months of discussions between Formula 1, General Motors, and its partners at TWG Global, with extensive talks surrounding the feasibility of GM’s entry into the world’s premier motorsport series. Formula 1 had previously conducted a commercial assessment, with a final decision on GM’s involvement made in January 2024. Since then, the two parties have worked tirelessly to reach an agreement that solidifies GM and Cadillac’s place in F1’s future.

Cadillac's Bold Return to Motorsports

General Motors, one of the largest and most iconic automakers in the world, has long had a history of motorsport involvement, with Cadillac now poised to make its return to the international stage of Formula 1. The decision to enter the grid under the Cadillac banner is a strategic move by GM to expand its global footprint while also tapping into the cutting-edge technology, engineering excellence, and global fanbase that Formula 1 commands.

For Cadillac, the move to Formula 1 signals a major leap forward, as the brand seeks to position itself as a true contender in the world of motorsports. While the specifics of the team structure are yet to be fully disclosed, it is confirmed that GM will initially enter as an engine supplier, with plans to field a full-fledged team starting in 2026.

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1:

“General Motors and Cadillac’s commitment to this project is an important and positive demonstration of the evolution of our sport. We look forward to seeing the progress and growth of this application, certain of the full collaboration and support of all the parties involved.”

Mark Reuss, President of General Motors:

“As the pinnacle of motorsports, F1 demands boundary-pushing innovation and excellence. It’s an honor for General Motors and Cadillac to join the world’s premier racing series, and we’re committed to competing with passion and integrity to elevate the sport for race fans around the world. This is a global stage for us to demonstrate GM’s engineering expertise and technology leadership at an entirely new level.”

F1’s strategic expansion 

This development contributes to the increasing excitement surrounding Formula 1, which has experienced rapid growth in recent years. As the sport expands into new markets, particularly in the United States, the addition of a GM/Cadillac team aligns seamlessly with F1’s goal to enhance its presence in North America and beyond. Cadillac’s legacy in motorsports, coupled with GM’s engineering expertise, provides a unique combination of tradition and innovation that will be thrilling to witness on the Formula 1 grid.

Although the details regarding GM/Cadillac’s entry are still in the early stages, it is evident that both parties are fully committed to ensuring a successful debut for the new team in the 2026 season. F1 fans can anticipate updates in the coming months as the official application process progresses, along with additional announcements about technical partnerships, engine developments, and the team structure.