What's Happening?
Cadillac has revealed a temporary livery for its Formula 1 team as it prepares for its debut in the 2026 season. The American manufacturer, which has joined the championship as the 11th team, showcased the livery at the Hudson's Detroit building. The design is predominantly black with the Cadillac logo in white on the engine cover. This livery is intended for learning purposes, helping the team understand aerodynamics and performance before finalizing the design. The official livery will be unveiled during the NFL Super Bowl on February 8. Cadillac plans to introduce its own power unit by 2028 but will initially use Ferrari power. The team includes former Red Bull driver Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas, with Colton Herta as a development driver and Zhou
Guanyu as a reserve.
Why It's Important?
Cadillac's entry into Formula 1 marks a significant expansion of American involvement in the sport, aligning with F1's growing popularity in the United States. The introduction of a new team underlines the competitive and commercial appeal of F1, potentially increasing viewership and sponsorship opportunities. Cadillac's strategic use of Ferrari power units initially, while developing its own, highlights a pragmatic approach to entering the highly competitive F1 landscape. This move could influence other manufacturers considering entry into the sport, impacting the dynamics of team and engine supplier relationships.
What's Next?
Cadillac will participate in pre-season testing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, followed by official testing in Bahrain. The team's performance during these sessions will be closely watched as it adapts to new technical regulations. The unveiling of the official livery during the Super Bowl is expected to generate significant media attention, further boosting the brand's visibility. As Cadillac develops its power unit, the team's progress will be monitored for potential impacts on the competitive balance within F1.
