Cadillac has named its debut Formula 1 car the MAC-26 in honor of American racing legend Mario Andretti. The tribute recognizes Andretti's 1978 world championship and his role in the team's origins. The car will make its track debut at the Australian Grand Prix next week.
Cadillac Formula 1 Team announced on February 27, 2026, that its first chassis for the 2026 season will be called the MAC-26, short for Mario Andretti Cadillac 26. The naming pays tribute to Mario Andretti, the 1978 Formula 1 world champion with Lotus, who also won the 1969 Indianapolis 500, the Daytona 500, and multiple IndyCar titles. Born in Italy, Andretti emigrated to the United States as a teenager and remains one of only two American drivers to claim the F1 title.
The project traces its roots to an initial bid by Andretti's son, Michael, to enter Formula 1, which evolved into the Cadillac team backed by TWG Motorsports and General Motors after Formula One Management approved the entry. Andretti serves as a consultant and ambassador, stepping back from a more active role but providing inspiration. Team CEO Dan Towriss stated, “Naming our first chassis MAC-26 reflects the spirit Mario carried into Formula 1 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.”
Team principal Graeme Lowdon highlighted Andretti's personal impact, saying, “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.”
Andretti, who turns 86 on February 28, 2026, responded, “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 honour. 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.”
The Ferrari-powered car, to be driven by Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas, completed winter testing with 3,935 km covered. Cadillac, the first U.S.-owned team in decades, aims to compete near the midfield in its debut season starting in Melbourne.
