Cadillac F1 Team Eyes Driver Line-Up Ahead of 2026 Debut
As the Cadillac Formula 1 team prepares for its inaugural announcement at the Miami Grand Prix, speculation intensifies regarding potential drivers, notably Sergio Perez. Although rumors link the former Red Bull driver to Cadillac, sources suggest discussions are ongoing, and no deal is confirmed.
Cadillac aims to finalize its driver roster by summer 2023 as it readies for its 2026 debut from its expanding Silverstone facility. Team principal Graeme Lowdon acknowledged the challenge of entering F1 late in the seat allocation process. Most teams have prioritized continuity between the 2025 and 2026 driver line-ups due to impending technical regulations.
The Case for Perez
At 35 years old, Perez boasts 281 Grand Prix starts and six race wins, making him a valuable candidate for Cadillac. Despite a difficult tenure at Red Bull, where he faced formidable teammate Max Verstappen, Perez’s experience could significantly benefit the new team. His commercial appeal, particularly with backing from prominent Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim, positions him as a desirable asset in a North American context.
In a recent interview, Perez emphasized the importance of motivation in his potential return to F1. "To be in F1 fully committed, I need the motivation," he stated, underscoring that any team must genuinely value his contributions.
Competitive Landscape for 2026
While Perez is under consideration, Cadillac’s management is evaluating other candidates. Valtteri Bottas, currently reserve driver for Mercedes, has expressed interest in joining the team. With 246 career starts and 10 wins, Bottas brings considerable technical expertise that could complement Cadillac’s development plans.
Lowdon has not ruled out signing an American driver, despite initial indications that the team may prioritize experienced international talent. "We’ll select drivers on merit," Lowdon explained, highlighting the potential for a mix of veterans and emerging talent to establish a competitive foundation.
Conclusion
As Cadillac navigates a complex decision-making process for its driver line-up, it must balance the allure of established veterans like Perez and Bottas with the objective of eventually integrating American drivers into the mix. The forthcoming announcements will directly impact Cadillac’s preparation as they embark on their F1 journey, set against the backdrop of evolving technical regulations in 2026.
