Cadillac and Mario Andretti’s influence: former Ferrari driver to lead new American F1 team. The American Cadillac will enter F1 in 2026 with a special leader.

After much anticipation filled with rumors and discussions, the announcement from F1 leadership has finally arrived: Cadillac and General Motors will bring a team to the grid in 2026, and Andretti’s influence is undeniable.

Expressions of satisfaction came from the leaders of Formula 1, Cadillac, and the FIA during the joint announcements made this afternoon, Monday, November 25. General Motors and Cadillac have reached a “principle agreement” with F1 to field their own team in the 2026 championship.

Details about the future team are still unknown. The team’s name and the power unit it will use remain undisclosed, but the agreement represents a significant and decisive step forward in securing its place in the championship.

Although the Andretti family is not directly involved in Cadillac and GM’s entry into F1 after the seemingly endless saga, many signs still point to the family of the former F1 champion. Following the announcement, Michael Andretti expressed his congratulations: “The Cadillac F1 Team is made up of a truly strong group of individuals. They’ve worked tirelessly to build an American team. I’m extremely proud of the work they’ve done and congratulate everyone involved in this important step. I’ll be cheering for you!”

Mario Andretti to Lead the Cadillac F1 Team
Furthermore, the Cadillac and General Motors F1 team will have an exceptional figure on its board. The person designated to lead the group is Mario Andretti, the 1978 Formula One World Champion.

The 84-year-old Italian-American expressed his joy: “My first love was F1. Now, 70 years later, the Formula One paddock is still where my heart belongs. I am absolutely thrilled for Cadillac, for F1, for Mark Walter, and Dan Towriss. Being involved again at this stage of my life… I have to pinch myself to make sure this isn’t just a dream!”