F1 confirm 11th team is 'set to join' the grid as shock statement released
A huge change will be introduced next year.
Formula 1 has reached an 'agreement in principle' which will see a new team introduced in 2026.
F1 has reached an agreement in principle with General Motors (GM) to support bringing GM/Cadillac as the eleventh team to the grid in 2026.
This evening, an official statement confirmed the news.
"Over the course of this year, they have achieved operational milestones and made clear their commitment to brand the eleventh team GM/Cadillac, and that GM will enter as an engine supplier at a later time.
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"Formula 1 is therefore pleased to move forward with this application process and will provide further updates in due course.
“With Formula 1’s continued growth plans in the US, we have always believed that welcoming an impressive US brand like GM/Cadillac to the grid and GM as a future power unit supplier could bring additional value and interest to the sport.
“We credit the leadership of General Motors and their partners with significant progress in their readiness to enter Formula 1.
"We are excited to move forward with the application process for the GM/Cadillac team to enter the Championship in 2026.”
President of General Motors, Mark Reuss said: “As the pinnacle of motorsports, F1 demands boundary-pushing innovation and excellence. It’s an honor for General Motors and Cadillac to join the world’s premier racing series, and we’re committed to competing with passion and integrity to elevate the sport for race fans around the world. This is a global stage for us to demonstrate GM’s engineering expertise and technology leadership at an entirely new level.”
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1 said: "General Motors and Cadillac’s commitment to this project is an important and positive demonstration of the evolution of our sport.
"We look forward to seeing the progress and growth of this application, certain of the full collaboration and support of all the parties involved.”
If the team were added they would become the second-licensed outfit from the US, alongside Haas.
GM's entry would be mean next season would be the first time in ten years that over 20 cars will be on the grid.
However, it is still unclear who will power their cars, as GM will not be allowed to produce their own F1 engines until 2028 according to RN365.
The report also suggests that the car is expected to be powered by either a Ferrari or Honda made engine when they are introduced to the championship.
Topics: Formula 1, Motorsport
Luke Davies