The engines of ambition are roaring at General Motors (GM) and TWG Motorsports, as the iconic American brands announce a monumental stride into the elite world of Formula 1. Introducing GM Performance Power Units LLC, a groundbreaking initiative poised to position Cadillac as a powerhouse on the F1 grid by 2026. This bold move reflects not only Cadillac’s rich legacy but also GM’s unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence.

At the helm of this high-octane enterprise is none other than Russ O’Blenes, a veteran of motor racing engineering with over three decades of experience. Named CEO of GM Performance Power Units LLC, O’Blenes will spearhead the development of Cadillac’s bespoke powertrains, cementing the brand’s place in the fast lane of Formula 1. From his current role as director of GM Motorsports Propulsion and Performance, O’Blenes brings a wealth of expertise to a venture that blends cutting-edge technology with an audacious vision.

“We’re thrilled to have Russ leading this pivotal project,” shared Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Motorsports. “His unmatched expertise in powertrain development and leadership acumen will be instrumental as we craft a new era for Cadillac in Formula 1.” Complementing this powerhouse duo is Team Principal Graeme Lowdon, forming a leadership team destined to set new benchmarks in performance and innovation.

From Pontiac to the Pinnacle of Racing

O’Blenes’ illustrious career reads like a roadmap to success. From overseeing powertrain development for championship-winning teams to driving forward GM’s eCrate initiative for performance car builders, his technical prowess is as vast as it is impactful. He has also played a key role in developing hybrid powertrains for IMSA’s Cadillac and Corvette C8.R, both proven winners on the track.

“Russ has been instrumental in shaping GM’s motorsports legacy,” noted GM President Mark Reuss. “In Formula 1, we aim to showcase GM’s engineering capabilities on the global stage, and Russ is the perfect leader to steer us into this exciting future.”

The Road Ahead: Electrification and Innovation

The Cadillac Formula 1 Team, formed in partnership with TWG Motorsports, will leverage GM’s vast expertise in electrification, hybrid technology, sustainable fuels, and advanced software systems to engineer its power units. Prototype engine testing is already underway, with plans for a state-of-the-art facility near GM’s Charlotte Technical Center set to open in 2026.

“I’m truly honored to lead this incredible venture,” O’Blenes remarked. “Our mission is to bring an American-built F1 power unit to the grid, showcasing the best of what GM and Cadillac have to offer. The journey ahead is thrilling, and we’re actively building a team to make this vision a reality.”

Until GM’s proprietary engines are greenlit for competition, the Cadillac Formula 1 Team will utilize Ferrari power units—a testament to the team’s dedication to excellence even in its formative stages.

TWG Motorsports: Redefining Global Racing

This venture marks another feather in the cap for TWG Motorsports, the motorsport arm of TWG Global. With ownership stakes in Andretti Global, Wayne Taylor Racing, and Spire Motorsports, TWG Motorsports has firmly established itself as a transformative force in the racing world. The partnership with GM—America’s largest automaker—only amplifies the stakes, promising a spectacular debut on Formula 1’s grand stage.

A Legacy Reimagined

For GM, the move into Formula 1 is more than just a race; it’s a declaration of intent. With brands like Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC driving the charge towards an all-electric future, GM’s F1 ambitions align seamlessly with its vision for advanced mobility and lower emissions. This venture is a testament to Cadillac’s evolution from a luxury icon to a global leader in performance and innovation.

As the countdown to 2026 begins, one thing is clear: Cadillac is ready to take the checkered flag in the world’s most prestigious motorsport. Buckle up, Houston, because the future of American racing has never looked brighter.

For more info, visit gm.com