Two prominent American automakers, Ford and Cadillac, are preparing to clash in Formula 1 starting in 2026, marking the beginning of a notable Ford Cadillac Ferrari F1 rivalry. Ford is already staking its claim by partnering with Red Bull Power Trains to supply power units, while Cadillac will enter the competition using Ferrari engines before developing its own powertrain.
Upcoming changes transform Formula 1’s competitive landscape
The 2026 F1 season will introduce a sweeping rule overhaul affecting car design and powertrain technology. Vehicles will become lighter and smaller, with active aerodynamic elements being removed in place of enhanced overtaking aides. The hybrid power units will see a major shift, producing equal power from internal combustion engines and electric motors, raising the importance of hybrid efficiency.
This regulatory shakeup has attracted interest from many automakers worldwide, including veteran participants like Mercedes, Ferrari, and Honda, alongside newcomers such as Audi, Ford, and Cadillac. The evolving technical landscape opens the door for American brands to showcase their hybrid innovation on the global stage.
Ford’s ambitions deepen beyond power units
Mark Rushbrook, Ford’s motorsport chief, revealed in an interview with Motorsport aktuell that Ford initially entered Formula 1 to advance its hybrid battery technology and its integration with combustion engines. Over time, Ford expanded its role, contributing extensively to engine development, overall car design, and race operations with Red Bull Power Trains.
This comprehensive involvement reflects Ford’s commitment to mastering the complexities of high-performance motorsport and improving its hybrid powertrains through competition. As a result, Ford will be a significant technical and operational partner for Red Bull Racing from the 2026 season onward.
Cadillac’s route to Formula 1 and Ferrari engine partnership
Cadillac’s F1 team emerged after an initial bid from Andretti Autosport was declined by Formula One Management. Following leadership changes, American businessman Dan Towriss took charge, and the team was rebranded under Cadillac. Unlike Ford, Cadillac will not launch its own engine at the start but will instead use Ferrari power units while working on its own for a 2029 debut.
Mark Rushbrook commented on Cadillac’s approach, saying,
Cadillac will be in Formula 1 in 2026 — with Ferrari engines!
—Mark Rushbrook, Ford Motorsport Chief
He further expressed his anticipation for the upcoming rivalry:
We’re looking forward to the competition,
and added,
Whether it’s Ferrari cars with Ferrari engines, Cadillac cars with Ferrari engines, or anyone else’s!
—Mark Rushbrook, Ford Motorsport Chief
The historic rivalry between Ford and General Motors brands extends to Formula 1
Ford and General Motors (GM), which owns Cadillac, have a long-standing rivalry in motorsport that spans continents and racing disciplines. Australia’s Supercars series has traditionally pitted Ford against GM’s Holden brand, while NASCAR in the United States frequently sees Ford competing fiercely against Chevrolet, another GM brand, as well as Toyota.
This rivalry also mirrors the broader cultural and industrial divide in the American automotive industry, especially in regions like Michigan, where family allegiances to Ford or GM run deep. The Formula 1 grid will now add a new chapter in this enduring contest, introducing the iconic American brand competition to a global racing audience.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season and beyond
The 2026 Formula 1 season marks an important milestone for American manufacturers aiming to prove their hybrid technologies and racecraft at the sport’s highest level. Ford’s direct involvement in developing and supplying power units for Red Bull Racing positions it as a key player, while Cadillac’s entry with Ferrari engines signals its serious intent to compete and evolve.
This escalating Ford Cadillac Ferrari F1 rivalry promises to deepen the sport’s appeal and intensify competition, as both brands vie to establish dominance in the fast-changing landscape of Formula 1. Their presence is expected to accelerate innovation and draw greater attention from American motorsport fans worldwide.