Cadillac is shifting through the gears in its ambitious bid to join the Formula 1 grid in 2026, with the American luxury brand already putting drivers through their paces in advanced simulator sessions, the Independent can reveal.
American Dream: Cadillac's F1 Ascent Gathers Momentum
General Motors' prestigious Cadillac division is leaving nothing to chance as it prepares for a potential 2026 Formula 1 entry. Despite ongoing discussions with existing F1 teams about possible partnerships, Cadillac has initiated an intensive driver development programme, conducting simulator tests with multiple racing talents.
"We've had a number of drivers in the simulator," confirmed a senior Cadillac racing official, signalling the manufacturer's serious intent to compete at motorsport's highest level.
Strategic Partnerships and Power Unit Development
While Cadillac's chassis plans remain fluid, their power unit strategy is crystal clear. The American giant will leverage a technical partnership with a current F1 engine manufacturer, though specific details remain closely guarded. This approach mirrors successful manufacturer entries in recent years, balancing brand identity with proven technical expertise.
The manufacturer is exploring multiple entry pathways, including:
- Full partnership with an existing team
- Acquisition of current grid slot
- Technical collaboration on chassis development
Racing Pedigree Meets Global Ambition
Cadillac brings substantial racing heritage to the table, with recent success in the IMSA SportsCar Championship and at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans. This proven track record in elite endurance racing provides a solid foundation for their F1 ambitions.
The 2026 season represents a pivotal moment for Formula 1, with new technical regulations creating opportunities for new manufacturers to enter the sport. Cadillac's potential arrival would mark the first full American works team in decades, significantly expanding F1's footprint in the crucial US market.
What This Means for Formula 1
Cadillac's progressing plans signal growing confidence in their F1 project. The early driver testing demonstrates a methodical, well-structured approach to what would be one of the most significant manufacturer entries in recent F1 history.
As the 2026 season approaches, the motorsport world watches with keen interest to see if this American icon can translate its racing success to the ultimate proving ground of Formula 1.
