F1 Doubts Linger: Wolff Unimpressed by Cadillac’s Proposal

Toto Wolff casts doubt on Cadillac F1’s project, questioning its value and highlighting a lack of clarity in their approach.

Wolff is adamant: if General Motors (GM) and its Cadillac team can bring added value to F1, it’s clear the grid will expand to 11 teams.

The Mercedes team principal had strongly criticized the project in its original form, which was focused on Andretti.

In line with the Austrian’s concerns, and despite receiving FIA approval, Formula 1 (FOM) rejected the bid in early 2024. However, the restructured approach—shifting Andretti to a secondary role—has since received F1’s provisional approval to join the grid in 2026.

What, then, does “provisional” mean? Wolff acknowledged the potential benefits of General Motors entering Formula 1 via Cadillac but emphasized the importance of protecting the interests of current teams. Discussions on the matter are ongoing.

“I’ve always said that if a team is accretive, meaning it adds value, absolutely—because it’s obvious. You’re a stakeholder, we’re a team, we like revenues to go up. We like viewership to increase. If someone comes in and says, ‘I can do that,’ then welcome, with open arms.”

“But I’ve never heard anyone tell me that. I’ve never had anyone from GM make the pitch—which isn’t necessary—because the teams have no say in this process.”

“It’s up to the FIA and the commercial rights holder to decide, but if you want to attend a party and aren’t invited, at least make a compelling case for why you deserve a seat at the table.”

“None of that happened before (with Andretti), and it was probably a misstep from the start.”

“Now, GM coming in as a shareholder with its own engine is accretive, for sure. But to what extent, we don’t know.”

“We need to see if what’s been said about the deal structure, the anti-dilution payment, and eligibility for the prize fund actually materializes. As things stand, I can’t make a proper judgment because what I’ve heard isn’t great.”

“I think the current teams deserve respect for what they’ve accomplished over the past few years—God knows how hard it’s been for most of them just to survive.”