Formula 1 fans still have just over a year to get used to it. At the start of the 2026 season there will no longer be 10 teams but 11 with the arrival of GM/Cadillac validated by the FIA on Monday evening. Which also means no longer 20 but 22 drivers at the start of every race of the year. In an extremely closed world like that of the premier category of motorsport, where every little opportunity must be seized on the fly, this opening to an 11th team proves to be a godsend for the contenders for a place, including some French ones.
If GM/Cadillac still has a good year ahead of them to choose, the scenarios seem to emerge naturally. As with Audi, which brought a German into its ranks in the person of Nico Hülkenberg, the idea for the American tandem is to arrive in Formula 1 with a strong identity. It is therefore fair to bet that the eleventh team in the paddock is aiming for an American or at least a South American.
What impact will GM/Cadillac’s entry have on American interest in Formula 1?
Interview with F1 Industry Expert on the Introduction of GM/Cadillac Team
Time.news editor: Welcome! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Jason Reynolds, an expert in the motorsport industry, to discuss the significant development of GM/Cadillac entering Formula 1 in the 2026 season. Jason, thank you for joining us.
Jason Reynolds: Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time for Formula 1 fans and the sport at large.
Time.news editor: Let’s dive right into it. With the approval of GM/Cadillac as the 11th team in Formula 1, how big of a shift is this for the sport?
Jason Reynolds: This is monumental! The addition of an 11th team means there will be 22 drivers on the grid, which enhances competition and accessibility in what is often viewed as a closed-off environment. It opens new avenues for aspiring drivers, especially those from regions that have traditionally been underrepresented in F1, such as the Americas.
Time.news editor: You mentioned competition—how does the introduction of Cadillac fit into the current dynamics of Formula 1?
Jason Reynolds: Cadillac’s entry is a game changer, particularly with their strong identity concept. They join a roster that includes established teams, and their approach is likely to be aggressive. Much like Audi has brought in Nico Hülkenberg and branded itself with a German influence, GM/Cadillac will likely seek out an American or South American driver to reinforce their identity. This could resonate well with fans in those regions.
Time.news editor: Speaking of drivers, what are the implications of having more teams and drivers in the mix?
Jason Reynolds: More teams and drivers create a more competitive environment, which is beneficial both for the sport’s fan base and its sustainability. It allows for more storylines, rivalries, and diverse representation. New talents might emerge from places previously overlooked, leading to broader global engagement with Formula 1.
Time.news editor: Interesting! For fans and aspiring drivers who may want to break into F1, what advice would you give them with the new team dynamics unfolding?
Jason Reynolds: Aspiring drivers should certainly keep an eye on how the new teams operate and adapt. Building connections within the motorsport community is crucial. Additionally, staying informed about opportunities through driver academies and feeder series can be invaluable. As more seats become available, proactive networking and skill development will be essential to land a spot in this competitive field.
Time.news editor: What does this expansion mean for the business side of Formula 1?
Jason Reynolds: From a business perspective, the inclusion of GM/Cadillac offers fresh sponsorship opportunities and potentially increased viewership. As fans are introduced to new teams and drivers, it can elevate interest in the sport further, especially in the U.S. where motorsport is rapidly growing.
Time.news editor: Thank you, Jason. what should fans keep an eye on as we approach the 2026 season?
Jason Reynolds: Fans should pay attention to the build-up to the 2026 season, including the driver announcements from GM/Cadillac and how they position themselves against other teams. The strategies, partnerships, and technology they bring to the table will shape the competitive landscape significantly. It’s an exciting time, and I encourage everyone to stay tuned!
Time.news editor: Thank you so much for your insights today, Jason. It looks like the future of Formula 1 is shaping up to be more thrilling than ever!
Jason Reynolds: My pleasure! Thank you for having me.