GM-Cadillac targets Ferrari power for 2026 F1 debut
GM-Cadillac’s ambitious plans to join Formula 1 in 2026 are taking shape, with the American manufacturer exploring a partnership with Ferrari for a power unit supply while it develops its own drive train.
This interim solution could enable Cadillac to hit the ground running under F1’s new technical regulations while setting its sights on greater self-reliance at some point in the following seasons.
American motorsport legend Mario Andretti, a member of GM-Cadillac’s board of directors,
confirmed that discussions are ongoing with Ferrari to secure a power unit supply.
This strategic move would allow Cadillac to focus on developing its own in-house power unit, which would appear at some point before end of the decade.
"That's the target, and it's [going to] happen," Andretti stated regarding the development of Cadillac's own power unit.
“An initial deal to use Ferrari power units is what we're talking about. That's not definite yet, but that's the objective. And that's the preference."
The move would align well with Ferrari’s anticipated reduction in customer teams. Ferrari currently supplies its own team, Haas, and Sauber, but the latter will transition to Audi power from 2026.
This creates an opening for Cadillac to partner with Ferrari, gaining access to one of F1’s top-tier power units.
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In addition to securing a strong power unit partnership, GM-Cadillac is also considering its driver options. Colton Herta, the talented IndyCar driver, is a potential candidate to join the team.
"He's definitely one that's considered," Andretti said. "I think you have to keep those options open, since it's going to be a whole next season where we're not going to be players."
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Securing Herta could bolster Cadillac’s appeal both in the U.S. market and on the global stage.
The road to F1 for GM-Cadillac has been a long and winding one. After initially being blocked by Formula 1 management, the team – under its original Andretti Global banner – has finally received the green light to join the grid.
Andretti, who played a crucial role in securing this opportunity, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome and his excitement for the future.
“I could go back and bring up events and so forth, but some of it was not very pleasant and I don’t really want to talk about any of that. All of that is behind us,” commented the 1978 F1 world champion.
“We just look forward now. It’s happened, and it’s happened properly. Everyone is happy, including my son, Michael. That’s the most important part. No one is diminished or suffered.”
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Andretti’s involvement with GM-Cadillac’s F1 team will be advisory, akin to the role his late rival Niki Lauda played at Mercedes.
"Obviously, they tried to tap off of my experience and what I see — selection of driver talents and even technical talents," he explained. "The sport is my family. I continuously have been involved in a lot of that, and it continues."
While Andretti has no plans to take on a day-to-day operational role, he will contribute to strategic decision-making.
"I don’t want a specific job per se, where I have to punch in every day,” he said. “I don’t need and want that. But I welcome the opportunity to definitely be part of a lot of key decisions. This is my rodeo," he said.
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