Cadillac 2026 F1 Entry: Mario Andretti's Role Revealed

1978 Formula One Champion Mario Andretti will still be a part of the Cadillac F1 entry, as a director on the board.

Formula One confirmed earlier today that it had provided General Motors with an "agreement in principle" to join the Formula One grid in 2026 under its Cadillac branding. However, it was not clear how the Andretti name might fit into this.

The racing legend has since spoken out on still being involved in the team. Mario Andretti commented:

"My first love was Formula 1 and now – 70 years later – the F1 paddock is still my happy place.

Former race car driver Mario Andretti listens during a news conference on May 01, 2024 in Washington, DC. Rep. John James (R-MI) hosted Andretti on Capitol Hill to respond to the Formula 1 management denying... Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

"I'm absolutely thrilled with Cadillac, Formula 1, Mark Walter, and Dan Towriss.

"To still be involved at this stage of my life — I have to pinch myself to make sure I'm not dreaming."

Andretti Global had partnered with General Motors to bolster its F1 bid which had originally been approved by the FIA in the October 2023. However, the American team was later rejected by Formula One Management in January 2024.

Despite this, Andretti continued pushing to join the grid by unveiling a UK headquarters in Silverstone, England, hiring former F1 technical director Pat Symonds, and continuing with the development of an F1 car under the 2026 regulations.

After Michael Andretti, Mario's son, recently stepped down as Andretti Global CEO, rumors began to intensify surrounding an F1 entry for General Motors/Cadillac. Michael explained at the time:

"Many of my best memories have come at the wheel of this organisation, and I am so proud of what we have built," he said at the time.

"But decades of running flat out doesn't come without sacrifice and, after much thought and reflection over the past several months, I came to the decision to take a step back."

Speaking about the "agreement in principle" Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali commented:

"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."

Michael Andretti has also broken his silence after the news today, posting to social media:

"The Cadillac F1 Team is made up of a strong group of people that have worked tirelessly to build an American works team. I'm very proud of the hard work they have put in and congratulate all involved on this momentous next step. I will be cheering for you!"