In a dramatic turn of events, Cadillac has received provisional approval to join the Formula 1 grid in 2026 as an 11th team. This breakthrough comes after months of controversy, opposition, and internal FIA drama. The involvement of FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem in the approval process reveals the complex and challenging journey that led to this historic moment.
The Road to Cadillac’s F1 Entry
Back in February 2023, FIA opened up the process for potential 11th teams to apply for a place on the Formula 1 grid, a move aimed at expanding the sport’s reach and competition. This decision sparked an intense battle, with several credible bids coming forward. Among these, Andretti Global received initial approval from the FIA, but the bid faced major hurdles with Formula One Management (FOM), which rejected the entry.
Despite this setback, FOM expressed interest in Cadillac, the General Motors (GM) subbrand that was part of the Andretti bid, potentially joining F1 as a constructor. This led to a complex series of negotiations and behind-the-scenes drama.
Ben Sulayem’s Bold Move for an 11th Team
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem played a pivotal role in the process. He has openly admitted to enduring significant challenges while working to secure Cadillac’s spot on the grid. “I was sent to hell and then came back,” Sulayem remarked, highlighting the intense opposition and obstacles he faced throughout the approval journey.
Sulayem’s decision to open the entry process for a new team was not universally welcomed. The introduction of an 11th team would mean that existing teams would see a reduction in their share of prize funds. This has led to significant resistance from established teams, who view the potential entry of a new competitor as a threat to their financial stability. Additionally, the situation was complicated by a U.S. Department of Justice investigation into Liberty Media, the owner of F1, which further fueled tensions between the parties.
The Political and Legal Drama Surrounding the Entry
The Cadillac F1 bid wasn’t just a matter of racing teams and governance—it also attracted political attention. U.S. Congress members supported the Andretti bid, with some arguing that the vetoing of new teams could constitute a monopoly. This fueled an already intense political climate around the entry process.
Sulayem also revealed that FBI agents were present at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, where they met with him regarding the investigation into Liberty Media. Despite the heightened scrutiny, Sulayem remained confident, stating, “I have nothing to hide.” He emphasized his belief in democracy, governance, and transparency as key drivers of his decision-making process.
FIA’s Commitment to Fairness and Transparency
Sulayem was quick to defend his actions as a president who prioritizes due process and due diligence. He recognized that while the FOM and the FIA have differing procedures for evaluating new teams, the provisional acceptance of Cadillac represents a victory not just for the brand, but for Formula 1 as a whole.
“This is a win for motorsport, for Formula 1, for the FIA, for FOM, for the teams, for the fans, and for motorsport in general,” he asserted, downplaying any personal triumph. According to Sulayem, the primary goal was always to strengthen the sport and ensure its sustainability and growth.
What This Means for the Future of F1
With Cadillac now on track to join the Formula 1 grid in 2026, the sport is poised for a new era of competition. The entry of a high-profile manufacturer like Cadillac, backed by General Motors, is expected to bring fresh excitement, new opportunities, and an increase in global appeal. As the sport continues to grow, the addition of new teams could help drive innovation and inspire further investments in F1.
However, the road to Cadillac’s acceptance hasn’t been without its share of challenges. Ben Sulayem and the FIA have faced significant pressure from established teams, regulatory bodies, and political figures. Yet, Sulayem’s determination to push forward with his vision for expanding Formula 1 has proven pivotal in this groundbreaking moment.
The Impact of Cadillac’s F1 Entry on Motorsport
Cadillac’s entrance into Formula 1 will have a significant ripple effect across the motorsport landscape. The sport is already witnessing increased interest from manufacturers and global fans, and the involvement of a brand like General Motors further strengthens F1’s position as the premier motorsport series worldwide.
For Formula 1, welcoming new teams like Cadillac is crucial to ensuring competition remains fierce, while also attracting a new generation of fans and sponsorship opportunities. For Cadillac, this is a bold step into the high-stakes world of F1, where technical excellence, innovation, and speed are paramount.
Conclusion: FIA’s Triumph for Motorsport Expansion
In conclusion, the FIA’s involvement in the Cadillac F1 bid has been a dramatic and contentious process, with Mohammed Ben Sulayem at the helm. Despite resistance from various parties, Sulayem’s commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent process has led to a historic moment for the sport. The entry of Cadillac in 2026 not only marks a significant milestone for F1 but also signals the start of an exciting new chapter for the sport. With a renewed focus on growth and innovation, Formula 1 is set to enter a thrilling new era, with Cadillac playing a pivotal role in its future success.
