Just before the 2025 Formula 1 season kicks off, it’s exciting to hear that Cadillac has been officially given the green light by Formula 1 and the FIA to enter the grid in 2026. That’s when we’ll see a fresh wave of regulations take hold.
General Motors, in collaboration with TWG Global, announced towards the end of last year that they’ve reached an agreement to introduce a Cadillac team to F1 in 2026. This development also includes launching a specialized F1 power unit, setting the stage for the Cadillac team to evolve into a “full works” team by the end of the decade, building both its own vehicles and power units.
This move signifies a historic moment as Cadillac becomes the first new team to step into the F1 world since 2016, making it the eleventh team on the highly competitive grid.
Adding to the buzz, General Motors has revealed that Graeme Lowdon will take the helm as team principal for Cadillac’s F1 venture. Besides his new role, Lowdon is known for managing China’s inaugural F1 driver, Zhou Guanyu.
The FIA and F1 have now confirmed they have completed their necessary sporting, technical, and commercial evaluations, officially recognizing the application from General Motors and TWG Motorsports. This endorsement allows Cadillac to fully ramp up preparations for their 2026 debut.
Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Motorsports, remarked, “Working closely with GM over the years has laid down a strong foundation for our F1 campaign. With the official nod from FIA and Formula 1, our focus is now sharper—we’re enhancing our facilities, pushing technological boundaries, and attracting world-class talent.”
GM President Mark Reuss expressed his gratitude, saying, “We’re incredibly thankful for the backing from FIA and F1 leadership, not only for us but also for our partners at TWG. Our excitement mounts as we edge closer to displaying GM’s engineering prowess on F1’s esteemed international stage.”
Cadillac has also confirmed Graeme Lowdon’s role as team principal, with Russ O’Blenes stepping in as CEO of TWG GM Performance Power Units.
Lowdon voiced his pride, noting, “I’m immensely proud of the Cadillac F1 Team’s hard work. This announcement is a pivotal step toward our debut and aligns with our goal to be a full-works team. The application process was lengthy, but we maintained our momentum and mission focus. We’re eager to start racing and offer fans another team to rally behind.”
F1 President Stefano Domenicali commented, “General Motors’ commitment to entering F1 with Cadillac demonstrates the dynamic evolution of our sport. I appreciate GM and TWG’s positive engagement throughout, and eagerly anticipate welcoming them to the grid in 2026 for yet another exhilarating year of Formula 1.”
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem reflected, “Today represents a transformative point, and I’m honored to lead the Federation through this significant expansion. Adding an 11th team like GM/Cadillac aligns with our 2026 regulations and promises a vibrant new chapter for the sport. The Cadillac F1 Team’s entry will not only invigorate the paddock but will inspire new competitors and fans. Their presence underscores our mission to push the limits of motorsport at its pinnacle.”
