Mario Andretti reacts to being named to board of directors of new Cadillac F1 team

With the news that Cadillac is joining F1 in 2026, Mario Andretti has been named to the board of directors for the organization. An Andretti-Cadillac team was denied entry in 2023, but this new formation is more acceptable to the FIA.

Mario Andretti is a legend. Formula One, NASCAR, IndyCar – there isn’t much that he wasn’t able to accomplish during his driving days. At 84 years old, he’s headed back to F1.

Today, Andretti responded to the news. He is more than happy to have a role within this new organization.

“I feel very lucky that I’ve been able to stick around for this long and do what I love for so long,” the legendary driver wrote on social media. “And the idea that the Cadillac F1 Team wants me around…I’ll help where I can, a non-exclusive role with the team, not involved in day-to-day operations (because I don’t want a job), but offering advice, inspiration, friendship anywhere I can. I am beyond fortunate.”

I feel very lucky that I've been able to stick around for this long and do what I love for so long. And the idea that the Cadillac F1 Team wants me around….I'll help where I can, a non-executive role with the team, not involved in day-to-day operations (because I don't want a…

— Mario Andretti (@MarioAndretti) November 25, 2024

This won’t be Andretti Global. However, this appears to be a solid compromise. There are several Andretti allies and close business partners on the Cadillac F1 team. Dan Towriss and Mark Walter will lead the team, they are majority owners at Andretti Global.

As for the engines that they will run, Cadillac F1 will use Ferrari engines for 2026 and 2027. They will then introduce their own engine in 2028.

Cadillac enters F1, could it come to NASCAR?

Cadillac races globally. Their addition to F1 is a big deal. But could Cadillac get involved in NASCAR? With the Chevy Camaro being discontinued, is there a chance that GM could swap Chevy out for the Cadillac brand?

To answer those questions simply, I don’t think so. It sounds far-fetched. Cadillac competes in sports car racing, IMSA, WEC, and now F1 – stock car racing doesn’t really fit the brand. But for a certain race fan, a Cadillac brand in the Cup Series would be a dream come true.

NASCAR is hoping to add another manufacturer. There are a lot of rumors about Honda and maybe Hyundai. But any additions are likely years away. Could a rebranding from Chevy to Cadillac make NASCAR a more attractive brand for other manufacturers? Again, I’m not sure that’s a legitimate solution, but may be a fun offseason debate.

Cadillac F1 team has me thinking about a Next Gen CT5 and I don’t hate the picture in my head. If you could pick any manufacturer to invest into NASCAR, who would you choose?