Formula 1 expands grid as General Motors to become the 11th team in 2026

25 November 2024Last Update :
Formula 1 expands grid as General Motors to become the 11th team in 2026

Formula One announced Monday that “an agreement in principle” has been reached “with General Motors to support bringing GM/Cadillac” to the grid as the sport’s 11th team in 2026.

“We’re excited to partner with General Motors in bringing a dynamic presence to Formula 1,” Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Global’s motorsport business, said. “Together, we’re assembling a world-class team that will embody American innovation and deliver unforgettable moments to race fans around the world. We appreciate the FIA and FOM’s support of our application and their recognition of the value we can bring to the championship.’’

“General Motors and Cadillac’s commitment to this project is an important and positive demonstration of the evolution of our sport,” said F1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali. We look forward to seeing the progress and growth of this entry, certain of the full collaboration and support of all the parties involved.”

This comes after news broke during the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend that General Motors was nearing approval to join the grid in 2026. Andretti Global initially put forward the bid, which included GM building its power unit in 2028, but F1 rejected it. But Andretti has undergone restructuring recently, with Michael Andretti leaving his operational role and Dan Towriss taking over.

It seemed the grid may be open to welcoming GM, based on comments made during Thursday’s news conference.

What it means 

A big American manufacturer with an extensive motorsports series joining the grid could bring fresh eyes to the sport, but it also means the prize money will be split up even more. F1 has said before that it was open to a GM works team. But it will need another customer power unit. GM planned to have its F1 engine ready in 2028, two years into the new regulations.

This is a developing news story.

(Photo: Mario Tama/Getty Images)