Cadillac Rejects 'Haas Model,' Will Forge Independent Path with Ferrari

Cadillac is set to join the F1 grid with a unique approach to its Ferrari partnership, aiming to control its own destiny from the start. Unlike some customer teams, the American outfit will only use Ferrari power units and gearbox cassettes, designing the rest of the car from scratch. This strategy, championed by consultant Pat Symonds, is rooted in the belief that a team must be self-sufficient to win a championship.

Why it matters:

• Cadillac's strategy directly contrasts with the Haas model, which has seen mixed success but often struggles with its development path being tied to its supplier.
• This independent approach signals a serious, long-term ambition from General Motors to compete at the highest level, not just participate on the grid.
• By designing its own chassis, suspension, and gearbox carrier, Cadillac retains full control over its car's performance and development trajectory, a critical factor for a future works team.

The details:

• Symonds confirmed Cadillac will only source the engine and gearbox cassette from Ferrari. The team will design and build the gearbox carrier, rear suspension, and front suspension in-house.
• Symonds stated his core philosophy: "I'm a great believer in being in charge of your own destiny. And I think if you are a customer team, to me, that's not the way to win the world championship."
• Despite the independent stance, Symonds praised Ferrari as "fantastic" and "really helpful," noting their support in allowing Cadillac to conduct TPC (Testing of Previous Cars) to help the new team integrate and gain experience.

What's next:

• Cadillac is currently using Ferrari machinery for private tests to prepare for its 2026 debut, focusing on team integration and operational readiness.
• The Ferrari partnership is an interim measure, with Cadillac's ultimate goal being to enter the sport as a full works team with its own power unit, currently targeted for 2028.