A defining moment for GM Motorsports: Formula 1® is here

March 06, 2026Newsletter Archives

It’s finally here! This weekend, the Cadillac Formula 1® team embarks on the first leg of an epic journey, lining up for its first official race start at the Australian Grand Prix. Maybe it’s just the fifth cup of coffee in me, but I'm literally buzzing with anticipation. On the eve of the Cadillac Formula 1® team’s first race, it’s worth reflecting on what the CF1 team has already achieved. 

In little more than a year, this team that started effectively from scratch will line up a finished Formula 1® car on the grid for the season’s first race. You couldn’t overstate how difficult that is. Through it all, early signs have been encouraging. CF1® were able to complete a solid regimen of simulator and on-track testing, receiving encouragement and admiration from the rest of the teams along the way. 

Feedback from teams within F1 has made it abundantly clear: Through grit and will, the Cadillac Formula 1® team have earned their right to race among the world’s best, producing a competent car right from its first laps. 

Additional thoughts: As a long-time F1 fan, it doesn’t hurt that Cadillac has one of the most experienced driver lineups on the grid and, if you ask me, the most likeable lineup too. Their feedback will be critical to the development of the car, from solving F1’s most un-knowable ingredient, to pushing forward development from the GM’s Charlotte Technical Center. 

We’ve published a letter from GM President Mark Reuss, written from the ground in Australia, which better encapsulates these sentiments than I ever could. It’s taken a titanic effort from Reuss and many, many others who believed in the dream of an American team back on the F1 grid. 

If you’re already a dedicated fan, you’ll know that the Australian Grand Prix offers some North America-friendly times for viewing this evening. If you’re F1-curious, check out the official Formula 1® site for accurate timing . You don’t often get to watch the first step on a path to glory, but now’s your chance to watch Cadillac Formula 1® make their mark on racing history. 

See you at the races,

Kyle Kinard 
Managing Editor, GM News