Cadillac Joins Formula 1 in 2026: Could Max Verstappen Lead the Team?
Cadillac, in collaboration with Andretti Global, has officially secured a place on the Formula 1 grid for 2026. This historic announcement marks the culmination of a lengthy lobbying effort, spearheaded by 1978 world champion Mario Andretti. The American automaker’s entry has sparked intense speculation about the drivers who could lead this ambitious project, with rumors suggesting a potential interest in four-time world champion Max Verstappen.
Verstappen’s Uncertain Future with Red Bull
Max Verstappen’s dominant 2024 season, which ended with his fourth championship title, was not without challenges. Despite a strong start, Red Bull’s RB20 car faced mid-season performance issues, forcing Verstappen to fend off competitors like McLaren’s Lando Norris. His championship was secured with a modest fifth-place finish in Las Vegas, raising concerns about Red Bull’s ability to maintain its competitive edge.
Verstappen’s manager, Raymond Vermeulen, has expressed concerns about Red Bull’s performance trajectory. Speaking to RacingNews365, Vermeulen emphasized the importance of providing Verstappen with a top-tier car: “Max wants to have the best performance package for the moment. We have four championships here. We are loyal to Red Bull, but of course, we want to keep going, and we need a competitive package.” This pointed critique has fueled rumors about Verstappen exploring other options.
Adding to Red Bull’s woes, the team lost the Constructors’ Championship title due to teammate Sergio Perez’s struggles and the RB20’s inconsistency. The departure of legendary designer Adrian Newey to Aston Martin further compounds uncertainty about Red Bull’s future competitiveness.
Mario Andretti’s Vision for Cadillac in F1
Mario Andretti has been vocal about his admiration for Verstappen, describing him as a “special talent.” When asked if Verstappen would be an ideal driver for Cadillac, Andretti enthusiastically confirmed, stating the Dutchman would be a dream signing for the new team.
Andretti’s journey to bring Cadillac into Formula 1 has been arduous. The initial proposal, submitted in 2023 in partnership with General Motors, faced resistance from Formula 1’s commercial body despite receiving FIA approval. Undeterred, Andretti Global expanded its facilities in the U.S. and the UK, conducted rigorous wind tunnel testing, and recruited experienced personnel, including former F1 CTO Pat Symonds. Political support from U.S. lawmakers added pressure on F1, ultimately paving the way for Cadillac’s inclusion.
Verstappen’s Options Beyond Red Bull
Verstappen, under contract with Red Bull until 2028, remains a key figure in Formula 1. However, as his manager pointed out, he is in the prime of his career and could consider other opportunities. Mercedes, Aston Martin, and now Cadillac appear to be potential options for Verstappen if Red Bull cannot deliver a competitive car.
Mercedes has consistently been a contender, while Aston Martin’s newfound resources and Adrian Newey’s expertise make it an attractive prospect. Meanwhile, Cadillac, under Andretti’s leadership, aims to make a strong debut with a mix of seasoned talent and emerging stars. Speculation suggests that Andretti’s ideal driver pairing could include Verstappen alongside a rising American driver like Colton Herta.
Cadillac’s Ambitious Plans for 2026
Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Global, the company behind Cadillac’s F1 entry, has outlined the team’s vision to showcase American innovation on a global stage. With a world-class setup, including advanced facilities and strategic leadership, Cadillac is positioning itself as a serious competitor in Formula 1. A marquee signing like Verstappen would signal their intent to challenge the established order.
The Road Ahead
As Red Bull works to regain its dominance, Verstappen’s future remains uncertain. While a move to Cadillac is far from guaranteed, it represents an intriguing possibility that could reshape the Formula 1 landscape. For now, the focus is on whether Red Bull can meet Verstappen’s demands for a championship-winning car. If not, the Andretti-Cadillac partnership may emerge as a bold new chapter in Verstappen’s illustrious career.