Andretti's sacrifice cleared the way for Cadillac F1 entry, says Mario

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Mario Andretti has revealed that his son, Michael Andretti, voluntarily stepped aside from the Cadillac Formula 1 project, believing himself to be an ‘obstacle’ in the team’s bid to join the grid.

Michael Andretti had long pursued an F1 entry for his eponymous racing team, advocating persistently for a spot on the grid.

Despite obtaining FIA approval and aligning with General Motors’ Cadillac brand, his efforts were stonewalled by Formula One Management, which rejected the bid at the start of 2024.

Undeterred, Andretti Global continued to push forward, establishing a UK base at Silverstone, hiring key personnel, and working towards a 2026 entry.

The breakthrough came in November when Los Angeles Dodgers lead owner and Chelsea F.C. co-owner Mark Walter acquired Andretti through his holding company TWG Global.

The restructuring saw long-standing Andretti partner Dan Towriss assume the role of CEO for TWG’s motorsports division, while Mario Andretti took a seat on the board of directors.

A Sacrificial Move for the Greater Good

To facilitate the transition and secure Cadillac’s entry, Michael Andretti chose to step back from the team, according to his father who remained a staunch supporter of his son's F1 ambitions.

©GM/Cadillac

“The aim was to get an American team on the grid, and we have achieved that,” the 1978 F1 world champion told Auto Motor und Sport.

“Michael is also happy, even though he has withdrawn from the project. He simply said: ‘If I’m the obstacle, then I’ll clear the way.’

“Looking back, we could certainly have done a few things better. But I never look back, only forward. In the end, all that matters is whether you achieve the goal.”

Cadillac’s Bold Ambitions in F1

With its 2026 entry secured, Cadillac has ramped up its preparations, recently sealing an engine and gearbox supply deal with Ferrari. The team also has plans to develop a bespoke Cadillac power unit by 2028.

Mario Andretti underscored the full commitment of General Motors to its brand’s F1 project.

“Formula 1 can expect full commitment from a giant like General Motors,” said the 84-year-old motorsport legend.

“They have a lot of pride. Look at how they have expanded in GT racing and sports cars and how successful they are there.

“They don’t do things by halves. They are ambitious and have big goals. I am confident that they can achieve this.

“All the manufacturers involved in our sport are serious. Racing is a showcase for their products.”

With an American powerhouse now officially on the F1 grid, the stage is set for Cadillac to make its mark when the 2026 season arrives.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.