Ricciardo verdict reached on F1 return after NEW team confirmation…….read more
Daniel Ricciardo’s hopes of returning to Formula 1 were given a significant boost last week with the announcement of a new team entering the sport in 2026. Cadillac, an American brand, has been confirmed as the 11th team on the F1 grid, and they have now launched official social media pages in preparation for their debut in the 2026 season. The team is set to use Ferrari power units, which is another exciting development for the F1 landscape.
The arrival of Cadillac in 2026 will lead to an increase in the number of drivers on the grid, which could work in Ricciardo’s favor. With the addition of the American team, there will be 22 drivers on the grid, a scenario that could increase Ricciardo’s chances of securing a seat. The 34-year-old Australian has been out of a full-time F1 seat since being replaced by younger talent at McLaren in 2023. His future in F1 has been uncertain, and he has spent the last year as a reserve driver for Red Bull.
Cadillac’s confirmation as a new team brings with it the question of which drivers they will sign for their debut season. It is widely believed that Cadillac will look to pair an experienced Formula 1 driver with a young American driver to help grow their brand and appeal in the United States. Mario Andretti, an advisor for the team, has publicly stated that the team would want a seasoned driver to partner with a rising American talent, ensuring a blend of experience and youthful energy. This has led many to wonder whether Ricciardo could be one of the seasoned drivers considered by the American team.
The possibility of Ricciardo joining Cadillac is certainly plausible, especially given the increase in the number of seats available. However, some believe that the team might opt for a different strategy, potentially targeting other experienced drivers or a different balance of talent. Ricciardo’s appeal lies not just in his racing ability but also in his global popularity and experience, which could make him a strong contender for one of the team’s seats.
While the expansion of the grid to 22 drivers certainly improves Ricciardo’s chances, the final decision will depend on several factors, including team dynamics, sponsorship interests, and the team’s broader goals for 2026. Ricciardo’s comeback could offer a thrilling return for the Australian, but he will have to compete against a host of other drivers for a seat. Only time will tell if the addition of Cadillac to the grid will lead to a dream F1 return for Ricciardo.
