The Cadillac Formula 1 team has named its first chassis MAC-26 to honor racing legend Mario Andretti ahead of the 2026 season debut. Andretti, the 1978 world champion turning 86, played a key role in securing the team's grid position. The tribute reflects the American roots of the General Motors-backed outfit.
The Cadillac Formula 1 team announced on Friday that its inaugural car for the 2026 season will be designated MAC-26, paying tribute to Mario Andretti. The name stands for Mario Andretti Cadillac, recognizing the 1978 Formula 1 world champion's legacy and his contributions to the team's formation.
Andretti, who turns 86 on Saturday, serves as an ambassador and board member for the General Motors-supported squad. The team traces its origins to an earlier bid by Andretti's son, Michael, which faced opposition from existing teams but evolved into the approved TWG Motorsports and GM project. This makes Cadillac the 11th team on the grid when the season begins on March 8 at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne.
"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," said team CEO Dan Towriss. "His story embodies the American dream and inspires how we approach building this team every day."
Andretti expressed gratitude for the honor. "Racing has been the joy of my life," he said. "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."
Cadillac Team Principal Graeme Lowdon praised Andretti's character. "Mario Andretti is a legend of Formula 1," Lowdon said. "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."
The team will field drivers Sergio Perez of Mexico and Valtteri Bottas of Finland for the upcoming season.