General Motors’ Cadillac will join Formula 1 in 2026 as the 11th team, with plans to debut its own F1 engine by 2028, showcasing its ambitions on the global stage.
NEW DELHI: General Motors (GM) has officially announced its entry into Formula 1, with its luxury brand Cadillac set to join the grid as the 11th team in the 2026 season. This marks a historic move for the American automaker, introducing one of the most iconic US brands into the world’s premier motorsport competition. Cadillac’s entry is expected to add a fresh dimension to the sport, boosting its global appeal while reinforcing the growing significance of Formula 1 in the United States.
To secure its spot on the grid, GM has paid a substantial $450 million anti-dilution fee, which will be shared among the 10 existing teams. This fee ensures that the value of the current teams is not diminished by the addition of a new competitor. However, GM’s plans go beyond merely entering as a team. The company has announced its intention to become a power unit supplier, with its first in-house Formula 1 engine targeted for release in 2028. This strategic move demonstrates GM’s ambition to be a key player in F1, showcasing its engineering capabilities on a global stage.
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The timing of GM’s entry aligns perfectly with Formula 1’s ongoing growth in the US. With three Grand Prix events now held in the country and an increasing American fanbase, the sport has witnessed an unprecedented surge in popularity. Cadillac’s arrival is expected to strengthen this momentum, providing US fans with a homegrown team to support.
Liberty Media CEO Greg Maffei welcomed the news, stating, “Welcoming a major US brand like GM and Cadillac demonstrates Formula 1’s growth in America. Their readiness to join will bring great value to the sport.” Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, also expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “General Motors’ commitment reflects the evolution of Formula 1. We’re excited to see this project take shape and look forward to their collaboration.” Mark Reuss, GM’s President, highlighted the company’s vision: “Formula 1 is the pinnacle of motorsports. Joining this series allows us to push boundaries, innovate, and showcase GM’s technology to fans worldwide.”
With its ambitious plans and strong legacy in innovation, GM’s entry promises to bring new energy, competition, and opportunities to Formula 1. This announcement not only represents a milestone for the company but also underscores the growing influence of the US in global motorsport.