Cadillac is poised to make its debut in Formula 1. From 2026, Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas will represent the American team on the starting grid, bringing significant changes to the qualifying format in particular.
Formula 1 is on the cusp of several major changes for the 2026 season. Not only is the technical regulation undergoing a revamp, but the American Cadillac will also make its entrance as the eleventh team on the grid. Instead of the current twenty drivers, there will be 22 drivers at the start of each race, which also brings significant changes to the qualifying format.
In the current season, it is still the case that five drivers drop out after both Q1 and Q2. The remaining drivers proceed to the next round, until in Q3 ten drivers compete for the pole position. However, in 2026 it will become more challenging for drivers to secure that coveted spot in Q3. Then, six drivers will drop out after both Q1 and Q2.
2016: The Last Time Formula 1 Had Eleven Teams
The last time Formula 1 had eleven teams was in 2016. That’s when the Haas team made its debut in the premier class. The FIA and Formula 1 then decided to approach the qualification differently. After Q1, seven drivers were already eliminated, resulting in a battle for the pole position among ten drivers in Q3.
