Ralf Schumacher urges Haas to explore Cadillac partnership for 2026

Former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher has suggested that the Haas F1 Team should consider a partnership with incoming American constructor Cadillac as it enters the sport in 2026. Proposing a partnership similar to that of Red Bull and Racing Bulls, Schumacher dismisses the idea that owner Gene Haas would have to sell for the team to see success.

Speaking to Bild on the arrival of the General Motors-backed manufacturer and how it affects the existing American team on the F1 grid, the six-time race winner believes the Ayao Komatsu-led team could become a junior team for Cadillac. 

"Not necessarily," Schumacher said when asked if Haas would need to be sold to become a competitive team. "But I would look for a partner – as a junior team, like Racing Bulls for Red Bull.

"Perhaps Cadillac would be an idea if they enter Formula 1 next year.

"All teams have the problem these days that they hardly dare to bring in young drivers – the junior team idea could be the solution."

Esteban Ocon, Haas F1 Team, Oliver Bearman, Haas F1 Team

Photo by: Sam Bloxham / LAT Images via Getty Images

Haas has struggled so far this year despite a strong showing in China where it scored 14 points. At the season opener, the team believed there was something wrong with the car after such a poor initial outing. 

"It was a big surprise," Komatsu admitted at the time. "We weren't expecting that whatsoever based on Bahrain testing. Yes, in Bahrain testing the car wasn't perfect, but we weren't expecting near as bad as Melbourne."

Sourcing components from Ferrari and Dallara to reduce costs, Haas is now a financially stable team. But while it has been the only American team on the grid since it joined the championship, it's never fully capitalised on this fact. Cadillac is aiming to do just that, with support from the behemothic GM. 

While Haas has consistently denied the idea of selling, maybe a partnership is an idea he would pursue.

"He's not interested. He truly enjoys being the owner of a Formula 1 team," Komatsu confirmed. "Currently one of ten, and starting next year, one of eleven. It's such a privileged position."

Haas sits ninth in the constructors' standings with just 35 points from drivers Esteban Ocon and Oliver Bearman.