Mario Andretti: FIA open to inviting a 12th team to F1

There is already plenty of discussion about GM/Cadillac F1’s new entry for the 2026 season. However, according to Mario Andretti, another team could join the grid – which would see F1 expand further to twelve teams.

General Motors/Cadillac create the blueprint for how teams can enter F1

Prior to GM/Cadillac’s entry bid being accepted, no team had received approval to join Formula 1 since Guenther Steiner’s Haas.

Because of this, there were questions about the criteria that applicants needed to meet for Liberty Media and the FIA to give them the green light.

After months and even years of talks, the American manufacturer managed to reach an agreement with FOM (F1 Management) in November.

GM’s commitment to producing their own power units in 2028, alongside their heavy infrastructure investments, were key components in getting the deal across the line.

Of course, a fee in the hundreds of millions will also be paid to existing teams – which will serve to compensate for F1’s prize money being diluted.

Andretti: There could be a 12th team on the grid

Under the current terms of the Concorde agreement, a maximum of twelve teams can compete in Formula 1. This means there is space for another name to join the grid, in addition to Cadillac F1.

Speaking to CBS Detroit, Mario Andretti discussed the importance of General Motors joining F1 as a manufacturer.

He also suggested that another team could find their way onto the grid:

“Well, obviously, to have a manufacturer there – there’s the ability to supply to other teams,” he told Rachel Hopmayer.

“It looks like the FIA might invite a twelfth team to join. So, again, there’s always a need for an engine.

“To have another manufacturer, to be able to supply that, it actually reinforces the basics of Formula 1.

“They [GM/Cadillac] are very ambitious now, the schedule just keeps going up, there is incredible commitment.

“So to ensure yourself, that you’re going to have a full grid and so on, this is a step forward for that.”

It is no secret that F1 wants more manufacturers in the sport.

Even during the height of tensions between Andretti and Liberty Media, there was always a desire from FOM to get General Motors onboard.

There were even reports that GM were encouraged to find another team, rather than Andretti, to partner with.

With this in mind, it would not be unreasonable for another big manufacturer to make a convincing offer.

No certainty on another entry, but the door is open

To be clear, there is nothing concrete regarding who – if anyone – could realistically become a 12th team in Formula 1.

Still, it is worth mentioning there have been rumours about other big manufacturers showing interest. Perhaps most notably, it emerged earlier in 2024 that Hyundai haven’t ruled out joining F1 in 2031.

Cyril Abiteboul, president of Hyundai Motorsport (and former Renault team principal) spoke about this topic over the summer.

He insisted that whilst Hyundai have not committed to anything, entering Formula 1 in 2031 is something the group could evaluate.

Inevitably, it is impossible to say with certainty who Andretti was referring to when he discussed a possible 12th team.

However, his comments still provide insights into some of the discussions taking place behind closed doors.