Mario Andretti: "Ferrari engine for Cadillac is a heartfelt but practical choice"
Today at 03:32 AM
Following the announcement a few weeks ago, which after years of discussions and prolonged negotiations finally made Cadillac's entry into F1 official for 2026 as the eleventh team on the grid, the General Motors team, backed by Andretti, has taken another step closer to joining the Circus. The American team has formalized the long-rumored agreement with Scuderia Ferrari for the supply of power units and gearboxes. This fills the customer slot left vacant by Sauber, which is set to become Audi in 2026 with a power unit developed by the German manufacturer.
This long-anticipated news means that the Italian team will supply the mechanical components of the car to the American outfit while GM develops and debuts its Cadillac-branded power unit. However, this engine won't be ready for the first year under the new regulations but is expected to arrive in 2028. The announcement of this fascinating yet unique partnership, given the names involved, came in recent days directly from Maranello via a statement on its website. It is subject to the formal ratification of the team's entry into F1 for 2026 (pending approval from FOM) and will likely span multiple years, specifically 2026 and 2027.
Why Ferrari?
This agreement with Mario Andretti has been discussed during an exclusive interview for Formula1.it. His perspective is particularly insightful, given his role as "Director of Board" for Cadillac, making him a key figure in the decision-making process.
"I've always preferred Ferrari's PU. There's no question about it; it's wonderful. Deep down, my heart has always been red. For me, it's also a choice driven by emotions. It was an obligatory move since, in the beginning, we'll have to purchase the power unit before the Cadillac engine arrives. We had options, and we chose Ferrari." – the former Ferrari driver pointed out.
Cadillac's long-term commitment
Beyond the power unit decision, the 1978 F1 world champion also commented on Cadillac's logistical plans. The team will have a base in Silverstone, utilizing the newly constructed Andretti facility for its F1 entry. Additionally, there will be a facility in the United States—key infrastructure for a serious and long-term project.
"Yes, it will be our home. We'll also have a headquarters in the United States. These are quite complex arrangements, but necessary given the commitment of at least ten years. It's an exciting program, with Cadillac making its F1 debut. We aim to do our best. I don't want to talk about goals. Perhaps the 2026 regulations will help us, and we'll give it our all, as we've always done." – he concluded.
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