Ford is gearing up for its entry into Formula 1 in 2026 and has set its sights on competing against General Motors (GM) on the global motorsports stage. While these two Detroit-based rivals currently go head-to-head in NASCAR, Ford is eager to showcase its technology and expertise against GM in the future. GM, under its Cadillac brand, had sought to expand the current Formula 1 grid from 10 teams to 11 through the Andretti Cadillac effort. However, Formula One Management (FOM) rejected their application, despite approval from the FIA, which oversees F1.
Mark Rushbrook, the global director for Ford Performance, expressed his support for Andretti Cadillac and called on the series to give them a chance. Rushbrook emphasized that competition against other manufacturers is the essence of racing, and Ford would be thrilled to welcome GM into the sport as a power unit manufacturer partnering with any of the existing 10 teams. General Motors President Mark Reuss responded positively to Rushbrook’s endorsement, stating that they would also welcome Ford to IndyCar.
Currently, Ford does not compete in IndyCar, while Chevrolet dominates the top eight spots in the starting lineup for the upcoming Indianapolis 500 race. Formula One Management has shown some signs of softening its stance against Andretti Cadillac, holding at least two recent meetings and promising to reconsider their application in 2028 when General Motors has an engine ready to compete. Andretti Cadillac had aimed to join the grid in 2025 with GM’s support. They have been actively working on race cars from a new facility in England and recently made a significant addition by hiring F1 chief technical officer Pat Symonds.
Rushbrook praised the seamless process through which Red Bull joined F1 in 2023 and acknowledged the welcoming atmosphere from both the FIA and FOM. He highlighted that it is possible to enter the sport without encountering roadblocks, as demonstrated by Gene Haas’ entry as a team owner. However, Andretti’s experience has been different. The team has faced criticism for their grid expansion efforts and concerns about diluting revenue for existing teams. FOM’s rejection letter even questioned Andretti’s ability to field a competitive team, suggesting that the family name isn’t as valuable as they believe.
In a recent report, it was revealed that Mario Andretti, the renowned F1 champion and father of Michael Andretti, had a confrontation with Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali during the Miami Grand Prix. Mario Andretti claimed that Formula 1 CEO Greg Maffei stated he would do everything in his power to prevent Michael Andretti from entering Formula 1. Though Mario Andretti and F1 have not yet commented on this report.
In conclusion, Ford is eagerly anticipating its entry into Formula 1 and hopes to compete against General Motors, its long-standing rival, on the global motorsports stage. Despite FOM’s rejection of the Andretti Cadillac effort, there are indications that the series may reconsider in the future. The dynamic between FOM and Andretti has been challenging, with concerns raised about grid expansion and the value of the Andretti name. However, both Ford and GM are open to welcoming each other into their respective racing domains. The future of American participation in Formula 1 holds much excitement and potential.