Cadillac Confirms 2026 F1 Car Development On Schedule

Cadillac's highly anticipated 2026 Formula 1 debut car is progressing precisely on schedule, as confirmed by team principal Graeme Lowdon. The American outfit is gearing up to join the grid with a strong driver lineup and a rapidly developing chassis.

Why it matters:

The entry of a new American constructor like Cadillac, backed by General Motors, signifies a major expansion for Formula 1, particularly in the crucial North American market. Their structured approach to development aims to ensure competitiveness from day one, having already lined up Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas as drivers, with Colton Herta as test driver.

The details:

• Chassis Progress: Cadillac has successfully built and tested a prototype chassis, which underwent rigorous FIA homologation tests, including severe squeeze and impact evaluations.
• Production Phase: With prototype testing complete, the team is now actively laying up the first two race chassis, confident in their design and ability to pass final homologation.
• Team Structure: Led by Graeme Lowdon (Team Principal) and Dan Towriss (CEO), the team also features Nick Chester as Chief Technical Officer and Pat Symonds as Executive Engineering Consultant.
• Operational Bases: Cadillac F1 operates from facilities in Indiana, Michigan, and Silverstone, leveraging global expertise.

What's next:

Cadillac will initially utilize Ferrari engines and gearboxes for their 2026 debut. The long-term plan is to transition into a full works team by 2029, producing their own power units. Their progress positions them to be the first new constructor since Haas joined the grid in 2016.