Source:REUTERS/JOHN LOCHER
[Saba Sports News] Cadillac F1 Team has been granted permission to enter the F1 starting grid as the 11th team for the 2026 season, with 1978 F1 World Champion Mario Andretti serving as the team’s director. Yesterday, Andretti expressed his enthusiasm for the project on social media. He stated that his first love was F1, and 70 years later, F1 is still a place that brings him joy; he feels very lucky to be able to continue doing what he loves. At this stage of his life, he often pinches himself to ensure he is not dreaming while holding such an important role. Andretti committed to providing help to the team to the best of his ability, but he will take on a non-executive role and not be involved in daily operations. Records show that Andretti made his F1 debut in 1968, participating in the US Grand Prix held at Watkins Glen. In 1971, he signed with the Ferrari F1 team and won the first F1 Grand Prix of that season in South Africa. In the 1978 season, Andretti performed outstandingly, winning six F1 Grand Prix races and ultimately clinching the F1 World Championship for that season. After retiring, Andretti continued to be involved in motorsport-related activities.