Cadillac has officially unveiled the name of its first-ever Formula 1 car, the MAC-26, in a heartfelt tribute to one of America’s greatest racing legends—Mario Andretti. The announcement, made on February 27, 2026, comes just ahead of Andretti’s 86th birthday and right before the team’s much-anticipated debut at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 8. For Formula 1 fans and American motorsport enthusiasts alike, the move marks a significant milestone: not only does it honor the last American to win an F1 world championship, but it also signals the bold arrival of Cadillac as the 11th team on the grid for the 2026 season.
The MAC-26 designation stands for Mario Andretti Cadillac, a name that’s destined to resonate with F1 fans around the world. Team CEO Dan Towriss explained the decision with palpable pride: “Naming our first chassis MAC-26 reflects the spirit Mario carried into Formula One and the belief that an American team belongs on this stage. His story embodies the American dream and inspires how we approach building this team every day.” This sentiment is echoed throughout the paddock, as Cadillac seeks to carve out its own legacy among the sport’s most storied manufacturers.
Mario Andretti himself, who remains an active ambassador and board member for the General Motors-backed Cadillac F1 team, described the naming as the “ultimate compliment.” In a statement released by the team, Andretti said, “Racing has been the joy of my life. It is the ultimate compliment that the Cadillac Formula 1 Team sees those years as meaningful and worthy of recording with this honor. I cherish the opportunity that it gives me to have a lasting bond with F1 and am genuinely appreciative of everyone who continues to acknowledge my part in racing history.” For Andretti, whose name is synonymous with American racing excellence, the gesture cements his enduring influence on the sport he helped shape decades ago.
The journey to the grid wasn’t without its challenges. Cadillac’s F1 project originally began under the Andretti Global banner, led by Mario’s son, Michael Andretti. The initial bid faced stiff opposition from existing teams and was ultimately rejected by Liberty Media, F1’s commercial rights holder, after a period of prolonged wrangling. Michael Andretti eventually stepped aside, paving the way for a restructured entry with Dan Towriss at the helm and an increased role for General Motors. Through these twists and turns, Mario Andretti’s unwavering support and guidance remained a driving force, ensuring the project’s survival and eventual success.
Team principal Graeme Lowdon recalled a pivotal moment during the team’s formation. “Mario Andretti is a legend of Formula 1. A true racer who knows how to win and push the limits of what is possible. But more than that, he is an incredible man with a gentle heart who believes in everyone’s ability to shape their own path. At the start of my own journey with the team, he asked me not to let him down – I hope that he will be proud to see the Cadillac Formula 1 Team car bearing his name finally take to the grid.” This personal connection underscores the deep respect and admiration the team holds for Andretti’s contributions both on and off the track.
Cadillac’s arrival marks a new chapter for American involvement in Formula 1, a sport historically dominated by European teams and drivers. The MAC-26 will be driven by two seasoned veterans: Sergio Perez of Mexico and Valtteri Bottas of Finland. Both drivers bring a wealth of experience and a hunger to prove themselves with a brand-new team. Their machine, the MAC-26, is powered by a Ferrari-engined power unit—a nod to the technical partnerships that often define success in modern F1.
Pre-season testing has already offered a glimpse into the car’s capabilities. Perez and Bottas completed a combined 3,935 kilometers during winter testing, methodically gathering data and fine-tuning the MAC-26 ahead of its race debut. The anticipation is palpable, with fans and pundits alike eager to see how Cadillac will fare against established giants like Mercedes, Red Bull, and Ferrari. Will the MAC-26 be a dark horse, or will it face the growing pains typical of new entries? Only time will tell, but the excitement is undeniable.
It’s worth noting that the MAC-26’s name stands out in a field where car designations often favor corporate or technical codes. Red Bull’s RB22, Aston Martin’s AMR26, and Williams’ FW series all follow tradition, but Cadillac’s choice to honor a living legend—one who is actively involved with the team—adds a human touch rarely seen in the sport. The hope, as some fans have mused, is that this becomes a trend, with more teams drawing inspiration from the icons who shaped racing history.
For Mario Andretti, the recognition serves as both a celebration of his remarkable career and an opportunity to deepen his connection with the sport. “I cherish the opportunity that it gives me to have a lasting bond with F1 and am genuinely appreciative of everyone who continues to acknowledge my part in racing history,” he said. As the only American to claim an F1 world title in the modern era, Andretti’s legacy is secure—but the MAC-26 ensures it will be front and center as Cadillac embarks on its quest for glory.
The team’s journey from a rejected bid to a fully-fledged competitor exemplifies the resilience and ambition at the heart of American motorsport. With the 2026 season about to kick off, all eyes will be on Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne, where the MAC-26 will make its competitive debut. The pressure is on, but so is the sense of possibility. Can Cadillac shake up the order and stake its claim among the elite? Or will the learning curve prove steep for F1’s newest entrant?
As the countdown to lights out continues, one thing is clear: Cadillac’s MAC-26 isn’t just a race car—it’s a symbol of American determination, innovation, and reverence for racing greatness. With Mario Andretti’s name emblazoned on its chassis and a passionate team behind it, the MAC-26 is ready to write the next chapter in Formula 1 history. The world will be watching as the green flag waves in Melbourne, ushering in a new era for both Cadillac and American motorsport.