F1 News
Drivers united behind Cadillac's arrival: 'More rivals, more action'
- Estéban den Toom
Starting in the 2026 Formula 1 season, with the introduction of new regulations, the grid will expand to feature 22 drivers. This change comes with the addition of a new team: Cadillac Racing. Throughout the season, drivers Fernando Alonso, Pierre Gasly, and Charles Leclerc have shared their insights on the team's progress and development as it prepares to join the competition.
First, veteran Alonso spoke on the arrival of the American team. "Eleventh team, 22 drivers. It's not the first time that we will be 22 on the grid. It's a complex decision, I guess, for the sport in general. But if they came to that conclusion because it's the best for everybody. So, I will support it all the way forever. Management thinks that it's the best. And then for the team personnel, they have a couple of people that were in the Renault days, and for sure, they would have a huge contribution. Right now, they are a very early part of the project, they don’t have a lot of experience in Formula 1 and in the sport. So, I wish the best of luck going forward. A new team is never an easy task. I think they will be well prepared and they have the right people. Well done." The oldest driver on the current Formula 1 grid explained.
Gasly is also enthusiastic. According to him, racing takes on a new dimension with two extra drivers on the grid. "It's exciting. It's going to be my first time to race with 22 cars in F1. So, more rivals, probably more action, more racing. So, exciting, exciting times. As Fernando said, I think it's been a long topic for quite a long time, so I'm sure they came to that conclusion, they think that it is the best for the sport. So, excited about it."
Leclerc believes Cadillac will bring more talent to F1
Charles Leclerc believes the expansion of the Formula 1 grid will create more opportunities for emerging talent within the sport. Last year, Red Bull Racing decided there was no future for Sergio Pérez within its main team. As a result, Liam Lawson will partner with Max Verstappen in 2025, while Isack Hadjar will join Racing Bulls alongside Yuki Tsunoda. With the grid growing to 22 drivers in 2026 and two additional seats becoming available, the door will open even wider for rising stars to make their mark in Formula 1.
"I also think there are many young drivers waiting for a place in Formula 1 and to get there. This would obviously give more opportunities to very talented young drivers who dream of a place in Formula One. So, for this, it's a good thing and it's cool to have two extra cars on the grid," the Ferrari driver explained.
This article was written in collaboration with Toby Nixon
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