Lewis Hamilton has voiced his support for the introduction of an 11th team in Formula 1, set to debut in the 2026 season. The new entrant, Cadillac F1, will bring fresh competition to the championship as it prepares to join alongside established teams.
Despite some criticism surrounding the grid expansion, Hamilton described the development as an exciting opportunity for the sport’s growth and competitiveness.
Experienced Drivers to Help Shape Cadillac’s Debut
Cadillac’s Formula 1 team will feature drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, both bringing significant experience to the new outfit. Alongside them, IndyCar driver Colton Herta has been signed as a test driver to assist the team ahead of its launch.
Hamilton emphasized the importance of having skilled drivers to build a strong foundation for a brand-new team.
“I think so. I think we have a good mix on the grid. I think it’s amazing to have an extra team, and I think for a team to be able to develop, you have to have drivers who have experience, especially when it’s a brand new team,”
he said.
He also highlighted the value of diverse insights from different racing organizations, adding,
“You’ve got two different flavours coming from Red Bull and Mercedes with different knowledge and experience that they’ll both be able to put into the pot and help the team move forward faster.”
Background and Challenges of Cadillac’s Entry
Cadillac’s road to Formula 1 has encountered several hurdles. Initially approved by the FIA in 2023, the bid was later declined by Formula One Management in January 2024. Despite this setback, the team persisted by establishing resources, including opening a new base in Silverstone, to fulfill its ambition of joining the grid.
A significant turning point came when Michael Andretti, son of 1978 F1 World Champion Mario Andretti and original team lead, stepped back, allowing General Motors to take a more prominent role in the project under its Cadillac brand.
Official Support and Future Impact on the Sport
FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem welcomed the expansion, calling it a “transformative moment” for Formula 1. He praised the arrival of Cadillac as aligning with the new 2026 technical regulations and as a boost to the sport’s future.
“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,”
Ben Sulayem stated.
He further noted,
“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.”
What the Addition Means for Formula 1’s Future
The inclusion of Cadillac as the 11th team will diversify the competition and inject new enthusiasm into Formula 1. With experienced drivers and backing from a major automotive manufacturer, Cadillac is positioned to contribute significantly to the sport’s evolution under upcoming regulation changes.
Lewis Hamilton’s endorsement underscores the potential benefits of this expansion, highlighting how increased team numbers with strong leadership and driver expertise can accelerate development and enrich the racing spectacle for fans worldwide.
