Andretti-Cadillac’s aspirations to compete in the 2026 Formula 1 season are still alive, despite not yet securing approval from Liberty Media, which has suggested waiting until GM can develop its own engine by 2028.
In the meantime, Andretti Global has expanded its facilities to Silverstone, UK, indicating significant investment and commitment to its F1 ambitions. This project, spearheaded by Michael Andretti of Indycar and Formula E team ownership fame, reflects the organisation’s dedication to joining the elite motorsport series.
F1 veteran Mario Andretti shared with Sports Illustrated that his son’s endeavor remains focused on a 2026 launch. He said, “We’re continuously working on it every day, regardless of what was represented to the press so far.” He also emphasized the rigorous approval process they are undergoing: “The FIA has put us through the ringer, if you will, for us to be able to check all the boxes and we have one more blessing that we need from the FOM. We’re having a key meeting coming up and hopefully we have some positive results from that.”
Despite a setback from Liberty Media, the Andretti project has not slowed down. A prototype is currently being tested in the wind tunnel, showcasing the team’s proactive approach. Mario Andretti optimistically noted, “Right now the objective is to be on the grid in 2026.”
The F1 legend also highlighted the critical juncture the project is at: “There are so many key elements here to be defined once we have a total ‘ok’. Because even very experienced individuals want to join us and we have to have a positive ‘yes’ that we’re going to go before we obviously extend a contract. Once we get the ‘ok’, we don’t start from scratch. We are already on our way.”
Meanwhile, the F1 community is abuzz with discussions about the next Concorde Agreement, which may limit the number of teams to ten, compared to the current maximum of twelve. This could present additional hurdles for Andretti-Cadillac.
GMM
Andretti/Cadillac deserve a spot on the grid. Stefano Domenicali and FOM need to get out of the way and accept it.