'A transformative moment' - FIA make bold statement about new F1 arrival

FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has hailed the arrival of the Cadillac Formula 1 team as "a transformative moment" for the sport.

Confirmation of an 11th team on the grid in 2026 ends a process the FIA commenced two years ago when it asked for expressions of interest for prospective new teams to join F1.

Assessed on technical capability and resources, of the seven teams that initially applied, four were forwarded to the evaluation stage, resulting in Andretti being the FIA's chosen candidate to be assessed by F1 on its commercial capability.

On January 31 last year, FOM rejected the Andretti bid despite it being supported by General Motors in the form of its Cadillac brand.

However, it did not exclude it from future evaluation, providing it was a GM works team or a GM customer team designing all allowable components in-house.

Following a rebranding to the Cadillac F1 Team, with an initial supply of Ferrari power units for two years before GM delivers its own system in 2028, FOM has finally agreed commercial terms that ensures F1 will have 11 teams on the grid in 2026 for the first time in 10 years.

Commenting on the move, Ben Sulayem said: "Today marks a transformative moment, and I am proud to lead the Federation in this progressive step for the championship.

"The FIA Formula One Championship's expansion to an 11th team in 2026 is a milestone. GM/Cadillac brings fresh energy, aligning with the new FIA 2026 regulations and ushering in an exciting era for the sport.

"The Cadillac Formula 1 Team’s presence in the paddock will inspire future competitors and fans. Their entry strengthens our mission to push motorsport’s boundaries at the highest level."

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