Cadillac F1, there’s a “loan” from Ferrari to hit the track already in 2025
Cadillac is accelerating its plans for a historic debut in Formula 1. After running a full simulation of the Italian Grand Prix at Monza in its “virtual garage” — complete with team radio messages and live strategy decisions as if two real cars were on track — the American manufacturer is now preparing to take a real step onto the circuit. This move will happen with crucial help from Ferrari, which will supply the engine and transmission to General Motors’ official Formula 1 team starting in 2026. Between November and December 2025, the Maranello-based team will reportedly lend Cadillac one of its older Formula 1 cars, typically used for TPC (Testing of Previous Cars) sessions, to allow the American outfit to refine its operations not only in the virtual environment but also in the real paddock.
Graeme Lowdon speaks
The news has been confirmed by both team principals of Ferrari and Cadillac F1. Graeme Lowdon spoke about the collaboration to Japanese journalists from Autosport Web, explaining: “It’s not that we really want to test the cars, because in reality we don’t have one of our own yet, and from a strictly technical point of view, there’s no real benefit for us to run another team’s chassis. However, we have a race preparation program, and we want everyone to start working together before Melbourne 2026. We don’t want people to meet for the first time at the opening race of next season. That’s why there will definitely be a test before the end of this year.”
Frederic Vasseur confirms
The test could take place using either the Ferrari SF-23, which has already been used several times this year for TPC sessions — these tests are officially permitted with cars at least two seasons old — or the older SF-90 from 2019. The American team does not necessarily need to use a car from the current “ground effect” generation to gain operational experience. Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur confirmed the plan, saying: “We won’t use all 20 TPC test days allowed by the regulations, so we can help Cadillac by lending one of our older Formula 1 cars for them to test on track, potentially between November and December. It’s in the best interest of the sport that they can drive a car from another team for one or two days this year. Since we will be supplying them with the gearbox and power unit, we’re happy to collaborate.”
Through this collaboration, Cadillac aims to strengthen its technical and operational readiness ahead of its full entry into Formula 1 in 2026. The partnership not only allows the American manufacturer to gain valuable track experience but also strengthens its alliance with Ferrari, ensuring a smoother transition into the demanding world of Formula 1 competition.
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