Cadillac Join The Grid For 2026

Author: Connor Owen

CADILLAC TO JOIN IN 2026

Formula 1 is set to welcome a new American powerhouse to the grid for 2026 - Cadillac. After months of speculation and evaluations, TWG Motorsport and GM have secured approval to join the grid after regulations change next year. Let’s dive into what this means for F1, how we got here, and if this announcement leaves a sour taste in anyone’s mouth. An 11th team, how exciting!

Cadillac tick the boxes

To be confirmed and approved as a new team in Formula 1, those who apply must complete evaluations set out by Formula One and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) to gain their spot on the grid for future seasons. These evaluations include:

Sporting - This assessment evaluates the team’s necessary experience and expertise in motorsport, including their leadership, engineers and technical staff. The team would need to demonstrate that they can operate at the highest level, this being through race strategies and logistics. Teams also need to meet the strict safety standards put in place by the FIA and the adherence to the regulations.

Technical - Cadillac would have had to submit detailed designs of their car to ensure they comply with the F1 technical regulations. This assessment would confirm if the team possess the appropriate facilities to produce a Formula One car. Facilities such as wind tunnels and simulators would be checked to make sure the team can build and test a car effectively.

Commercial - This one is pretty self-explanatory, make sure that bank account remains juicy. They must prove they can sustain the costs of running an F1 team. Do they show the potential to attract sponsors, or have any sponsors already lined up? Cadillac must align with the brand and the values of Formula One. Lastly, the team must ensure that they have a long-term strategy and financial backing to keep their place on the grid.

forza cadillac!

Another key factor which is evaluated in the technical assessment is the chassis and engine technology. Luckily for Cadillac, they have this covered.

Ferrari will be the supplier of their power units for 2026 due to GM (General Motors) not having a ready-engine just yet. Cadillac will join the likes of Scuderia Ferrari (of course), Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber, and fellow Americans Haas F1.

Cadillac will look to push for an American-built power unit for the future beyond the 2026 season.

How do you feel about the 11th team joining?

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