Andretti-Cadillac is the most aggressive attempt to enter Formula 1. Despite being ignored by other teams and F1, the partnership is determined to get in, even if it takes harsh measures. That may require creating its engine as soon as the rules allow. GM Motorsport’s Executive Director Eric Warren told Autosport that an F1 engine program is being considered, not if it can be done but if it makes sense. Warren replied, “We could, of course.” He was direct. “We’re considering it. “Power units,” Warren said. He said anything before 2026 is unfeasible because the engine manufacturer signup date had passed. If it enters before then, Renault will supply its engine in 2027. “GM wants to design and build cars. “It’s not white-labelling an engine,” he told Autosport, slamming Ford. Red Bull will brand GM’s Dearborn rival’s engines. Before Ford announced its interest in the sport, the latter sought automobile cooperation. Andretti-Cadillac may have choices. Honda, with ties to Andretti, could return to F1. After its success, the Japanese manufacturer halfheartedly ended its F1 engine effort in the late 2010s. Max Verstappen won two world championships using its power units. GM and Andretti can capitalize on Red Bull’s 2026 switch from Honda power units to its own. However, an internal engine appeals. Detroit’s V-Lymph car’s 5.5-liter V8 is competitive in races. It’s competing at Le Mans in June. Even without Andretti’s stunning new facilities, The General alone has the resources. Andretti-Cadillac could get its engine if it wants. Warren’s remarks suggested the manufacturer was concerned about Renault’s engine’s competitiveness. He said, “We want to get racing and be competitive and then look in 2026 at what makes the most sense.” Warren would not say that if the Renault engine was powerful, which it has not been. We can only conjecture till Andretti-Cadillac’s proposal is accepted. Only when the squad is on the grid will its future be uncertain. GM faces little serious competition for seats. Another team may fly the stars and stripes if permitted.
