Martin Brundle says he’s “really pleased” to see an 11th team joining Formula One with Cadillac on the verge of a 2026 entry into the sport.
F1 rejected Andretti’s bid in partnership with GM earlier this year but with former boss Michael Andretti out of the picture, a GM entry led by businessman Dan Towriss – the majority shareholder of Andretti Global – is set to join for the season after next.
A statement from F1 following the Las Vegas Grand Prix confirmed the American team GM/Cadillac, who are set to be based near Silverstone in the UK and powered by Ferrari before producing their own engine, had been approved ahead of 2026.
New engine and chassis regulations come into play in 2026 and it is also the year that Audi officially enters the sport.
Sky Sports F1 broadcaster and ex-F1 driver Brundle said on X: “With my F1 fan and TV commentator hats on I’m really pleased to see another team and two more drivers on the grid, and another manufacturer joining.”
The move comes after F1 initially rejected the bid which was headed up by Andretti – owned by former F1 driver Michael Andretti, son of 1978 world champion Mario Andretti – earlier this year. The Andretti name has since been dropped from the proposal.
And while it is understood that Mario will be handed an ambassadorial role in the project, Michael is no longer involved.
F1 said in a statement on Monday night: F1 said: “Formula 1 has maintained a dialogue with General Motors, and its partners at TWG Global, regarding the viability of an entry following the commercial assessment and decision made by Formula 1 in January 2024.
“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.
“Formula 1 is therefore pleased to move forward with this application process and will provide further updates in due course.”
With my F1 fan and TV commentator hats on I’m really pleased to see another team and two more drivers on the grid, and another manufacturer joining. https://t.co/jp5TuDHCpO
— Martin Brundle (@MBrundleF1) November 26, 2024
F1’s presence in the United States has increased dramatically in recent seasons following the success of the sport’s Netflix series, Drive to Survive, as well as the growing number of races in America.
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.”
The majority of F1 teams have, previously, been opposed to an 11th team entering the sport on the grounds it commercially diminishes their value and income.
Speaking before the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff spoke about the prospect of an 11th team joining the grid and signalled his approval.
“I think if a team can add to the championship, particularly if GM decides to come in as a team owner, that is a different story,” he said.
“And as long as it is creative, that means we’re growing the popularity of the sport, we’re growing the revenue of the sport, then no team will be ever against it. So I’m putting my hope in there.”
Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Global’s motorsport business, commented: “We’re excited to partner with General Motors in bringing a dynamic presence to Formula 1.
“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.”
