Former Formula 1 champion Mario Andretti stirs up controversy with a surprising change of heart regarding the driver lineup for the new Cadillac F1 team’s debut season. The American racing icon, who sits on the board of the upcoming team backed by General Motors, previously insisted on having an American driver in one of the two seats for the 2026 season. Speculation pointed towards young talent Colton Herta as a potential candidate, while the other seat was rumored to be reserved for an experienced F1 driver like Sergio Perez or Valtteri Bottas. However, Andretti now reveals a shift in strategy, stating that while they aim to have an American driver, it is not a strict requirement for the upcoming season.
The announcement has sent shockwaves through the F1 community, raising questions about the team’s direction and potential lineup. With the addition of two new seats on the grid for 2026, the competition for coveted spots is fiercer than ever, and Andretti’s about-face adds an element of unpredictability to the driver selection process. The new Cadillac F1 team, set to make its mark on the sport in 2026, has already begun laying the groundwork for its entry, including the appointment of Graeme Lowdon as team principal and the establishment of a new facility at Silverstone Park.
In a recent statement to ESPN, Andretti emphasized the importance of assembling a competitive driver lineup while keeping their options open. The team’s focus remains on fielding at least one American driver, but Andretti’s remarks hint at a more flexible approach to recruitment. As the F1 world eagerly awaits the unveiling of Cadillac’s final driver roster, the uncertainty surrounding the team’s selection criteria only adds to the intrigue and speculation surrounding the sport’s newest entrant. With the 2026 season shaping up to be one of the most competitive yet, all eyes are on Cadillac as they navigate the high-stakes world of Formula 1.