### Cadillac's Historic Entry into Formula 1: A New Era Begins Cadillac has officially secured its position as the 11th team in the Formula 1 grid, set to debut in the 2026 season. This marks a significant milestone as it is the first expansion of the F1 grid since Haas joined in 2016. The approval from the FIA and FOM comes after a lengthy process, including a previous unsuccessful bid under the Andretti name. Cadillac's entry is backed by TWG Motorsports and General Motors, signaling a robust commitment to the sport and a renewed American presence in Formula 1 racing [https://newatlas.com/automotive/cadillac-formula1-racing-team-2026, https://www.zawya.com/en/press-release/companies-news/twg-motorsports-and-gm-receive-formal-approval-for-cadillac-formula-1-team-ipnm7tki]. ### Structure of Cadillac's Formula 1 Entry 1. **Approval Process** - Cadillac's entry was formally approved by the FIA and FOM, confirming its place on the grid for the 2026 season [https://www.thestatesman.com/sports/cadillac-receives-final-approval-to-join-formula-1-grid-from-2026-1503405725.html]. - The approval follows a successful agreement reached in principle with Formula 1 just over two months prior [https://www.firstpost.com/sports/cadillac-approved-to-be-11th-team-in-formula-1-from-2026-season-13869777.html]. 2. **Team Development Focus** - The Cadillac F1 team is currently concentrating on key areas such as aerodynamics, chassis and component development, software, and vehicle dynamics simulation to prepare for their debut [https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1/cadillac-f1-team-gears-up-for-2026-debut-after-fia-approval-8832841]. 3. **Historical Context** - This entry is notable as it represents the first new team in Formula 1 in nearly a decade, highlighting a shift in the competitive landscape of the sport [https://www.autoweek.com/racing/formula-1/a64090295/cadillac-receives-final-approval-2026-f1-entry]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Timeline of Approval**: - March 7, 2025: Final approval received from FIA and FOM [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6183734/2025/03/07/cadillac-f1-team-approval]. - March 8, 2025: Multiple outlets confirm Cadillac's status as the 11th team [https://www.gamereactor.eu/cadillac-f1-team-officially-confirmed-as-the-new-formula-1-team-in-2026-1510483]. - **Team Composition**: - Backed by General Motors and TWG Motorsports, Cadillac aims to leverage significant automotive expertise to compete effectively in the F1 arena [https://www.reuters.com/sports/formula1/f1-fia-approve-gm-backed-cadillac-entry-2026-2025-03-07]. ### Conclusion: Cadillac's Entry Marks a New Chapter in F1 **Cadillac's entry into Formula 1 is a landmark event that signifies a renewed American presence in the sport.** 1. **Approval Achieved**: The team has received formal approval to join the grid, marking a significant milestone in its journey [https://www.cbssports.com/general/news/cadillac-to-join-in-formula-1-as-manufacturer-team-in-2026-after-receiving-approval-from-fia]. 2. **Development Plans**: Focus on advanced vehicle dynamics and aerodynamics is underway to ensure competitiveness upon debut [https://www.gamereactor.eu/cadillac-f1-team-officially-confirmed-as-the-new-formula-1-team-in-2026-1510483]. 3. **Historical Significance**: This marks the first new team in F1 since 2016, indicating a shift in the sport's dynamics and potential for growth [https://www.autoweek.com/racing/formula-1/a64090295/cadillac-receives-final-approval-2026-f1-entry]. Cadillac's commitment to Formula 1 not only enhances the competition but also reflects the growing interest in motorsport within the United States [https://www.wsj.com/sports/formula-one-cadillac-team-c2ddb6c9].