Lewis Hamilton, the legendary seven-time world champion, has thrown his weight behind an exhilarating new chapter in Formula 1 history: the introduction of an 11th team to the grid in 2026! This monumental shift comes courtesy of the ambitious Cadillac F1 team, which is gearing up to revolutionize the championship landscape alongside star drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez.
Despite mixed reactions from the motorsport community, Hamilton has boldly declared the expansion “amazing,” emphasizing the fresh excitement it brings. “I think we have a good mix on the grid. I think it’s amazing to have an extra team,” he stated passionately. Hamilton believes that with the right blend of experienced drivers, particularly in a fledgling team environment, the competition will not only be fierce but also more dynamic. “You’ve got two different flavours coming from Red Bull and Mercedes with different knowledge and experience that they’ll both be able to put into the pot and help the team move forward faster,” he elaborated, showcasing his optimism for the future.
The road to Formula 1 has been anything but smooth for Cadillac. After securing initial approval from the FIA in 2023, the team’s bid faced a significant setback when Formula One Management turned down their entry in January 2024. However, the resilient squad refused to back down, bolstering their resources and establishing a state-of-the-art base in Silverstone. The game changed dramatically when Michael Andretti, son of the revered 1978 F1 champion Mario Andretti, stepped back, allowing General Motors to take the reins and intensify their commitment to the Cadillac brand.
Adding to the excitement, Cadillac has also enlisted IndyCar sensation Colton Herta as a test driver, promising to inject even more talent and innovation into their efforts. This move is poised to elevate the team’s competitive edge as they prepare to make a splash in the high-octane world of Formula 1.
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem hailed this development as a “transformative moment” for the championship, celebrating the addition of Cadillac as a significant milestone. In a statement following the formal approval in March 2025, he proclaimed, “GM/Cadillac brings fresh energy, aligning with the new FIA 2026 regulations and ushering in an exciting era for the sport.” He added that the Cadillac Formula 1 Team’s involvement will serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring competitors and fans alike.
As the countdown to 2026 heats up, the motorsport world buzzes with anticipation. Will Cadillac’s bold entry redefine the competitive landscape of F1? One thing is certain: the stage is set for an exhilarating showdown! Buckle up, because the future of Formula 1 is about to get a whole lot more thrilling!
