Lewis Hamilton backs F1’s “amazing” expansion to 11 teams

Lewis Hamilton has given his support for introducing an 11th team to Formula 1 in 2026.

Cadillac F1, with drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, is set to join the championship in 2026.

Although the addition of another team to F1 has been met with some criticism, the seven-time champion has branded it “amazing”.

“I think so. I think we have a good mix on the grid. I think it’s amazing to have an extra team, and I think for a team to be able to develop, you have to have drivers who have experience, especially when it’s a brand new team,” he explained.

“You’ve got two different flavours coming from Red Bull and Mercedes with different knowledge and experience that they’ll both be able to put into the pot and help the team move forward faster.”

Cadillac’s journey to the F1 grid has been fairly tumultuous. After the team obtained the initial approval from the FIA in 2023, Formula One Management rejected the bid in January 2024. Despite the rejection, the then Michael Andretti-led team continued to build its resources, including a new base in Silverstone, to join the grid in 2026.

The turning point came when Andretti, who is the son of 1978 F1 champion Mario Andretti, took a step back and General Motors became more involved with its Cadillac brand.

Valtteri Bottas, Sergio Perez, Cadillac

Photo by: Cadillac Communications

Along with Perez and Bottas, the American outfit has signed IndyCar Series driver Colton Herta as a test driver.

“Today marks a transformative moment, and I am proud to lead the Federation in this progressive step for the championship. The FIA Formula One Championship’s expansion to an 11th team in 2026 is a milestone. GM/Cadillac brings fresh energy, aligning with the new FIA 2026 regulations and ushering in an exciting era for the sport,” FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said at the time of the formal approval in March 2025.

“The Cadillac Formula 1 Team’s presence in the paddock will inspire future competitors and fans. Their entry strengthens our mission to push motorsport’s boundaries at the highest level.”