At a glamorous event in Miami, the Cadillac Formula 1 team introduced its logo in a style that embodies American flair, captivating a crowd of distinguished guests, including the team’s executives, prospective sponsors, and various VIPs. Beneath this striking surface lies an ambitious project that is rapidly taking shape, all while racing against the clock.
It has been over two years since the Andretti Global team first made its official bid to enter the Formula 1 arena. During this time, numerous developments have transpired across the Atlantic, impacting the path to General Motors’ (GM) entry into F1 under the Cadillac brand. The journey has not been smooth; it even reached the halls of the U.S. Congress. In such a tense environment, potential investors were compelled to pause the program, marking a protracted wait that finally ended on March 7, when the green light for the project was officially granted.
The financial backers of this initiative, Mark Walter and Dan Towriss, have already made significant investments by establishing and staffing the team’s operations at Silverstone, where engineering for the single-seater cars will take place, even before receiving a formal entry. With Cadillac now officially on board, the newly formed team is experiencing a whirlwind of activity as it prepares for the 2026 season.
In the paddock, there are whispers that project managers are contemplating heavy reliance on external suppliers to expedite the process. A partnership with Ferrari is expected to ensure not only the provision of the power unit but also the gearbox and rear suspension. Meanwhile, aerodynamic development has already commenced in Toyota’s wind tunnel located in Cologne, showcasing the team’s proactive approach.
Persistent rumors suggest a collaboration with Dallara for chassis construction, although during the Miami weekend, it was revealed that the team has already developed a body for crash testing. Initial tests indicated that this body passed the assessments, albeit with a weight exceeding the engineers’ target. This outcome isn’t particularly surprising, as all teams are grappling with the stringent weight limits set for the 2026 season.
Insider sources report that the Cadillac F1 team’s final organizational structure is expected to comprise around 600 employees, with approximately half of them already on board. This interim workforce is currently operating under the guidance of technical director Nick Chester, a situation partially influenced by gardening leave affecting several individuals from other racing teams.
Pat Symonds, serving as the Executive Engineering Consultant for the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, along with Graeme Lowdon, the Team Principal, are steering the ship as preparations intensify. Concurrently, the development of the power unit, set to debut in 2029, has also commenced. This aspect of the project is being managed entirely in the United States at GM’s Charlotte headquarters, which encompasses its motorsport initiatives. The endeavor started with the creation of a single-cylinder engine, marking the first step in the development of a V6 unit that is anticipated to be completed by September.
The substantial investment associated with this project comes with its own set of risks, particularly regarding potential shifts in the FIA’s regulations concerning the future direction of F1 power units. This uncertainty has necessitated a cautious approach, resulting in a slower pace of work in recent months. Nevertheless, it seems that any lingering doubts have been alleviated, bolstered by a significant order for test benches placed with the Austrian specialist AVL.
Investment and design efforts must adhere to the financial constraints outlined by the power unit regulations. In the first three years, the maximum allowable expenditure is capped at $210 million, ensuring that Cadillac’s financial commitments align with those of other engine manufacturers from the onset of on-track operations.
While the topic of drivers has not yet reached a state of urgency, discussions regarding the driver market have begun within Cadillac. Early indications suggest that the team is leaning toward seasoned candidates, making it increasingly likely that they will opt against hiring rookie drivers. This shift has led to the sidelining of Colton Herta’s initial bid, as the Californian driver must wait until the conclusion of the IndyCar championship in late August to secure a superlicence.
Miami was abuzz with talk of Sergio Perez, with speculation circulating that the Mexican driver might attend Cadillac’s Saturday night event. However, the only driver present was Mick Schumacher, who is vying for an opportunity within the team. Despite this, Perez remains a contender on the team’s radar. Alongside Perez, team principal Graeme Lowdon has drawn up a shortlist that includes Zhou Guanyu, Valtteri Bottas, and Felipe Drugovich. Although Drugovich has yet to compete in a Grand Prix, he is regarded as a driver well-versed in the F1 landscape after serving as a reserve driver for Aston Martin.
As Cadillac continues to forge its path into the competitive world of Formula 1, the team’s strategies, investments, and preparations will become increasingly critical. The blend of American innovation and racing heritage promises to create an intriguing narrative as the team gears up for its debut in the 2026 season. The anticipation surrounding Cadillac’s entry is palpable, with stakeholders closely monitoring developments as the team works tirelessly to establish itself among the elite in motorsport.
In this fast-paced environment, the coming months will be crucial, not only for the development of the car and its components but also for assembling a competitive driver lineup that can make an immediate impact upon entering the grid. As the countdown to 2026 begins, all eyes will be on Cadillac to see how it navigates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the thrilling world of Formula 1 racing.
