Cadillac F1 Team Considers Driver Lineup Ahead of 2026 Entry
As the Cadillac F1 team prepares for its entry into Formula 1 in 2026, motorsport icon Mario Andretti has provided insights into the ongoing discussions regarding the driver lineup. Currently, the team has not finalized its two-driver roster, but Andretti confirmed that Mexican driver Sergio Perez is among the candidates under consideration.
In comments made during an interview with Fox Sports, Andretti, who serves on the board of directors for Cadillac F1, stated, “He’s [Perez] certainly one of the drivers that’s being considered. He has to be.” He emphasized the strategic approach being taken, noting, “I cannot divulge where we are with any commitment. I think we want to keep that luxury to ourselves until we scan the entire spectrum of availability.”
Andretti highlighted the “somewhat limited” options available to the team, given that many top talents are already contracted to established teams. However, he indicated there are still “three or four” viable candidates worth serious consideration. Alongside Perez, other potential drivers include IndyCar racers Colton Herta and Alex Palou, former F1 driver Mick Schumacher, and reserve drivers Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu.
Reflecting on the interest from various drivers, Andretti remarked, “What’s encouraging is that there is really some good reaction to individuals that want to join. I think that’s a good thing for us.”
When discussing the prospect of signing an American driver, Andretti noted, “You have to consider the team itself — to go on merit.” He acknowledged that while there was initial optimism about signing an American driver, the priority is to build a competitive team. “If we feel that we might wait a season or so before we bring in an American, so be it,” he added.
The Cadillac F1 team is navigating a pivotal moment as it gears up for its debut, conducting thorough evaluations of potential drivers to ensure a successful entry into the highly competitive landscape of Formula 1.
