Formula 1 is gearing up to welcome Cadillac Racing to the grid for the 2026 season, as momentum builds in the long-running saga involving Andretti-Cadillac.
Reports from Las Vegas from multiple authoritative sources suggest that a breakthrough has been achieved, paving the way for an 11th team to join under the sport's new regulations.
The shift reportedly involves Michael Andretti stepping back, with General Motors (GM) taking a more prominent role in the project. Liberty Media CEO Greg Maffei's departure also appears to have played a role in clearing hurdles for the new team's entry.
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff hinted at the changing dynamic, noting that GM's more prominent involvement adds significant credibility. "I've obviously spoken to Mario (Andretti)," Wolff said. "I didn't speak to his son. I didn't speak to any other people that are behind that. I don't know who they are. But I know GM. GM is great."
According to Corriere della Sera, escalating investigations by the US government into F1 owner Liberty Media's decision to block Andretti's entry may have catalyzed the negotiations. The resolution appears to involve branding the team as Cadillac Racing, with GM expected to produce its own engine by 2028. Until then, Honda is rumoured to provide the engine supply, although Corriere della Sera believes Ferrari may be a strong candidate.
Dutch broadcaster Ziggo Sport's Nelson Valkenburg revealed: "The first communication from FOM to us and to the fans about this should take place next week. The teams also still have to be officially informed."
The Andretti Global company has undergone a key leadership change, with Dan Towriss, owner of the Gainbridge company, now at the helm. Towriss was spotted trackside in Las Vegas, fueling speculation of an imminent announcement. "The hurdles seem to have all been removed, and suddenly there seems to be big movement in this story," said Valkenburg.
While many current teams have been hesitant to back an 11th team, McLaren CEO Zak Brown has been a quiet supporter from the beginning. "I've said from day one that GM and Cadillac Racing are fantastic brands," Brown said. "The fans will cheer for more competition and so will we. And it's an iconic brand, so let's see what happens."
Though neither Formula One Management (FOM) nor the FIA has issued an official comment, outlets like AP, Auto Motor und Sport, and La Gazzetta dello Sport are confidently reporting the news.
Red Bull boss Christian Horner remarked: "There are a lot of rumours at the moment, but nobody has told us anything about it."
