Cadillac Announces Driver Line-Up for 2026 F1 Season
October 5, 2023 – Cadillac has officially revealed its driver lineup for its inaugural season in Formula 1, confirming that Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas will pilot the cars starting in 2026. This news marks a significant development as the American manufacturer prepares to enter F1, backed by General Motors and TWG Motorsports.
Sergio Perez, a seasoned driver with six Grand Prix victories, returns to the grid after parting ways with Red Bull at the end of 2024. "Joining the Cadillac Formula 1 Team is an incredibly exciting new chapter in my career," Perez said. He emphasized the project’s passion and ambition, highlighting the responsibility he feels to represent Cadillac in the sport.
Valtteri Bottas, who boasts ten wins and 67 podiums, complements Perez’s experience, bringing together over 100 podium finishes and more than 500 race starts between them. Bottas expressed enthusiasm for the long-term vision of the team, stating, “This isn’t just a racing project; it’s a long-term vision.”
Discussions are ongoing with Mercedes to potentially allow Bottas to start working with Cadillac before the current season concludes. Team principal Graeme Lowdon outlined the strategic importance of the drivers’ experience, stating, "Signing two very experienced racers like Bottas and Checo is a bold signal of intent. They understand what it means to help build a team."
Both drivers are expected to play crucial roles in the development and competitiveness of the new team, which aims to establish itself as a formidable contender in the F1 landscape.
