Reports suggest that a deal between Formula 1 and General Motors is imminent. As a result, an eleventh team could potentially join the sport by 2026. While a proposal from Andretti was previously blocked, an American racing team under the GM banner seems to have piqued the interest of the premier class. Speculation is rife in the paddock of the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
According to De Telegraaf, multiple sources have confirmed that an eleventh Formula 1 team is indeed on the horizon. The organization is reportedly close to reaching an agreement with General Motors. The American automotive giant aims to be represented on the grid from 2026, on the condition that it also supplies its own engines from 2028. With Renault’s departure, a new engine supplier is more than welcome.
Kleinere rol voor Andretti
General Motors previously collaborated with Andretti Global, the company of the American racing family. However, a request to join Formula 1 under the Andretti name was firmly rejected. This led to an investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice. After all, all parties interested in participating in Formula 1 must be treated fairly. Andretti wanted to appear on the grid with Cadillac, a subsidiary of General Motors.
Given that Andretti would play a much smaller role in the new setup, the chances of successful negotiations with Formula 1 seem significantly higher. It is likely that a General Motors team would attract more attention. If the team does indeed join in 2026, it will need to find an interim supplier for the first two years. The Americans may collaborate with Ferrari or Honda, two manufacturers that have previously supplied engines to other teams.
