Cadillac Set to Make F1 Debut in 2026 with Pérez and Bottas at the Helm
Cadillac's Formula 1 Team Debut in 2026: Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas to Lead as Star Drivers
The highly anticipated debut of Cadillac's Formula 1 team in 2026 is making headlines, with sources confirming that Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas are set to become the inaugural driver pairing for the ambitious new team. This exciting move unites two of the most experienced drivers in the Formula 1 paddock, boasting a combined 16 career Grand Prix wins.
Cadillac Formula 1 Driver Lineup Announcement Expected at the Dutch Grand Prix
An official announcement regarding the Cadillac Formula 1 driver lineup is expected ahead of the 2026 season, specifically during this weekend’s Dutch Grand Prix. The decision emphasizes Cadillac's determined approach to hit the ground running as the 11th Formula 1 team on the grid. The operation will be led by Graeme Lowden, the highly respected former Manor F1 team principal. According to insiders, Pérez and Bottas were identified as top priorities during the team’s strategic recruitment process.
Sergio Pérez's Formula 1 Journey: A Key Asset for Cadillac
Sergio Pérez, the Mexican F1 driver who gained fame for his tire management skills and knack for podium finishes, became a free agent after being dropped by Red Bull Racing at the end of 2024. Despite securing notable victories at Red Bull, his stint alongside Max Verstappen exposed performance challenges. Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda, who succeeded Pérez, reportedly faced similar struggles trying to match Verstappen’s dominance.
At 33, Pérez brings a wealth of experience that Cadillac views as a crucial factor in establishing a competitive presence. His ability to adapt to various track conditions and deliver under pressure will be instrumental in Cadillac's rookie season.
Valtteri Bottas: The Finnish Veteran Brings Stability to Cadillac
Joining Pérez is Valtteri Bottas, an experienced Formula 1 driver known for consistency and adaptability. After his time at Alfa Romeo (Sauber) and a reserve driver role at Mercedes, Bottas, 34, is ready for a fresh challenge. Although he was often overshadowed by Lewis Hamilton during his Mercedes stint, Bottas's tenure in Formula 1 has proven him to be a reliable and highly skilled competitor.
For Cadillac, Bottas’s history of working with dominant teams like Mercedes serves as a steadying influence for a brand-new operation looking to make its mark in Formula 1.
Why Cadillac Chose Pérez and Bottas as Their Formula 1 Drivers
While Cadillac explored talks with other drivers, including Mick Schumacher, insiders revealed that Pérez and Bottas were clear frontrunners. The duo’s combined expertise matched Cadillac’s vision of building a formidable presence in F1.
Notably, Daniel Ricciardo, a highly regarded eight-time Grand Prix winner, reportedly declined any racing offers, while both Pérez and Bottas rejected late overtures from Alpine, who were seeking replacements for Franco Colapinto. This commitment underscores the appeal and ambition of the Cadillac Formula 1 project.
General Motors’ Vision: Cadillac Formula 1’s Exciting Plans
General Motors’ entry into Formula 1 under the Cadillac name represents the first grid expansion since 2016. While the team’s main operational base will be strategically located near the Silverstone Circuit in the UK, additional facilities in Fishers, Indiana, and Warren, Michigan, will support its development plans.
Although the team plans to introduce its own power unit later in the decade, Cadillac will use engines supplied by Ferrari during its initial seasons. This collaboration will provide the technical reliability necessary for Cadillac to launch its F1 future with confidence.
Star-Powered Strategy: Mario Andretti and Keanu Reeves Join Cadillac’s Journey
Adding to the excitement surrounding Cadillac's Formula 1 debut is its blue-chip leadership that includes American racing legend Mario Andretti, the 1978 F1 World Champion. Behind the scenes, fans can look forward to an exclusive multi-part documentary series chronicling Cadillac’s journey into Formula 1, with Hollywood superstar Keanu Reeves leading the production.
This combination of racing pedigree, storytelling talent, and innovation highlights Cadillac’s ambition to captivate motorsport fans worldwide while solidifying its identity in Formula 1.
Countdown to 2026: All Eyes on the Australian Grand Prix
The motorsport world eagerly anticipates the 2026 Australian Grand Prix, where Cadillac will officially debut its Formula 1 contender. With Sergio Pérez’s race-winning potential, Valtteri Bottas’s consistent driving style, and a bold vision from General Motors, the team is poised to shake up the competition and become a central storyline of the 2026 Formula 1 season.
As fans await the American legacy brand’s first steps in the fastest racing series in the world, Cadillac’s Formula 1 journey symbolizes innovation, ambition, and the drive to succeed.
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