Confirmation has arrived from Andretti Global and General Motors on their collaboration to venture into Formula 1 under the Cadillac brand. This significant news surfaces shortly after FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem expressed his aspiration to broaden the F1 grid in the coming years. No specific timeline has been disclosed by Andretti or GM regarding the anticipated debut of their team in the racing arena.
During this morning’s press conference, Michael Andretti and GM President Mark Reuss expressed their enthusiasm regarding the newfound partnership. Andretti mentioned that this decision stemmed from “lengthy discussions of around four to five months.” They also revealed that a collaboration with an engine provider was already underway and that a technical director had been hired, although no specific names were disclosed.
For the new team, GM or Cadillac will not act as the engine provider. Instead, GM will partner with an existing F1 engine supplier. GM will manage aero, chassis, and other combustion-related developments from locations in Warren, Michigan, and Charlotte, North Carolina. Andretti has been constructing a new HQ in Fishers, Indiana, which will support various F1 operations in addition to IndyCar, Formula E, and other ventures. A support base in the U.K. is planned to serve as the team’s European hub. Details on specific locations, and whether there will be shared facilities with an existing F1 team or engine supplier, remain undisclosed.
“We are continually expanding Andretti Global and its collection of racing teams, always keeping an eye on future prospects,” Andretti stated. “I firmly believe that we are well-suited to emerge as a fresh contender in Formula One, delivering value to the series, our partners, and excitement for the fans. It’s an honor to have GM and Cadillac by our side as we pursue this objective. The partnership with GM and Andretti is founded on a mutual passion for racing. This alliance offers us the chance to merge our racing passions and commitment to innovation to establish a genuine American presence in F1.”
“Together, we will adhere to the evaluation procedures and guidelines set by the FIA. In the meantime, we are preemptively gearing up in anticipation of the formal approval of Andretti Cadillac as a Formula One participant,” added Andretti.
The term “true American F1 bid” in Andretti’s speech appears to be a subtle jab at Geen Haas’ F1 team, which has neglected opportunities for young American talent in F1 and even showcased the Russian flag on its car before being compelled to remove them following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Details on driver announcements were scant, with Andretti Cadillac F1 team confirming only the inclusion of one American driver. Despite the absence of specific names, it is widely speculated that Colton Herta, a hopeful for F1, is a strong contender given the financial backing provided by Gainbridge. This annuity company not only sponsors Herta personally and Andretti’s IndyCar team but is also investing heavily to secure the Andretti name on the F1 team roster.
“It’s a privilege for General Motors to collaborate with Andretti Global at this pivotal moment in racing history,” remarked GM President Mark Reuss. “Our extensive motorsports heritage and engineering ingenuity make this partnership with Andretti Global to establish an American F1 team all the more exciting. Cadillac and F1 each possess a growing global appeal. With a motorsport legacy spanning over a century, our brand aspires to introduce our distinct American design and innovation to the realm of F1.”
This story continues to evolve. Stay tuned for further updates.
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