Seven Key Insights from Cadillac's F1 Leaders on 2026 Preparations

With just over 100 days until the first pre-season test, the Cadillac F1 team is facing a daunting but exhilarating challenge. Executive engineering director Pat Symonds and GM’s VP of Global Motorsports Competition Eric Warren recently shared crucial updates on their progress, revealing aggressive targets, strategic partnerships, and their unique approach to joining the Formula 1 grid.

Why it matters:

Cadillac's entry into F1 marks a significant moment for American motorsport. As a new team, their journey highlights the immense undertaking of building a competitive F1 operation from scratch. Their decisions, from early crash tests to engine partner relations, will be critical in determining their success and could set a precedent for future new entries.

The Details:

• Early Crash Test: Cadillac plans to be one of the first teams to complete the mandatory FIA crash tests for its 2026 chassis in the coming weeks. This proactive approach, much earlier than typical, aims to mitigate risks and ensure all systems are in place well ahead of the season. Chassis 00's delivery timing was set long ago to avoid last-minute issues.
• Aggressive Aero Targets: The team has set 'very aggressive' aerodynamic performance targets for the start of the 2026 season. Symonds noted these targets are based on FIA predictions for downforce and drag, aiming significantly above the estimated benchmarks.
• Integrated American Team: Despite a Silverstone base and reliance on European expertise, Cadillac emphasizes its identity as an American team with extensive involvement from GM's facilities in Charlotte and Fishers, near Indianapolis. Symonds dismisses concerns about physical separation, stating there is no 'mental separation' among the globally distributed team.
• Limited Ferrari Parts: Cadillac will partner with Ferrari for engine supply but will not replicate Haas's model of purchasing numerous other car parts. They are designing their gearbox carrier, front and rear suspension, and other components from scratch, prioritizing self-sufficiency to control their destiny.
• Ferrari TPC Testing: To foster integration, Cadillac staff have attended Ferrari's testing of previous cars (TPC) to gain operational experience, learn hydraulic bleeding and refueling procedures, and build team cohesion, with another joint TPC day planned.
• Perez's Simulator Feedback: 2026 driver Sergio Perez is already providing crucial feedback on the F1 simulator, particularly regarding steering wheel feel, which GM's group is actively tuning. Contact with Valtteri Bottas has also been initiated for driver fit and preferences, with Mercedes' cooperation.
• Uncertain Engine Plans: While committed to entering as an engine manufacturer by 2029, discussions about a potential future switch to V8 engines (possibly 2030 or 2031) introduce uncertainty. GM remains committed to developing its engine facilities, ready to pivot if regulations change, but will not abandon current turbo hybrid work prematurely.

What's next:

Cadillac's immediate focus is on hitting looming deadlines, including the crash test, freight shipment, and first car fire-up before Christmas. Successfully navigating these initial hurdles will be crucial for their readiness for the pre-season test in Barcelona and their competitive debut. Their ongoing recruitment drive and the continued integration of their global operations will define their initial performance on the F1 grid.