The world of Formula 1 is about to get a serious dose of American muscle and ambition! Cadillac, backed by automotive giant General Motors, has officially announced its entry into the pinnacle of motorsport in 2026, and they’re not coming quietly. In a move that has sent ripples through the paddock, the new American squad has confirmed a formidable driver lineup: the experienced duo of Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas. This isn’t just about adding another team to the grid; it’s about a bold statement of intent from a legendary brand. [1, 2]
Cadillac’s decision to sign both Perez, affectionately known as ‘Checo,’ and Bottas, who collectively boast over 500 Grand Prix starts and 16 wins, signals a clear strategy: experience over raw, unproven talent. Both drivers, aged 35, are making a remarkable return to the F1 grid after losing their respective seats at the end of the last season. Perez, a former Red Bull driver, took a sabbatical to reassess his future, while Bottas remained in the paddock as a Mercedes reserve. Their combined knowledge and race-hardened instincts will be invaluable as Cadillac builds its team from the ground up. [1, 2]
Graeme Lowdon, the former Marussia Sporting Director who will lead the Cadillac F1 team, emphasized the importance of their chosen drivers. “Signing two very experienced racers like Bottas and Checo is a bold signal of intent,” Lowdon stated. “They’ve seen it all and they know what it takes to succeed in Formula 1. But more importantly, they understand what it means to help build a team.” This focus on leadership, feedback, and raw speed will be crucial for the team’s development. [1]
Sergio Perez expressed his excitement about this new chapter, highlighting the passion and determination he sensed from Cadillac from their very first conversations. He sees it as an honor to help build a team that can eventually fight at the front, recognizing Cadillac’s legacy in American motorsport. Perez is particularly keen to represent the “team of the Americas” and make the continent proud. [1]
Valtteri Bottas echoed Perez’s sentiments, describing Cadillac’s vision as ambitious yet grounded. He views this as a long-term project, a rare opportunity to be part of something being built from scratch and shaped into a true F1 contender. Bottas, who enjoyed significant success with Mercedes, believes Cadillac possesses the same professionalism and hunger he’s witnessed in top-tier teams. [1]
While Cadillac aims to eventually feature an American driver, the immediate focus is on leveraging the proven experience of Perez and Bottas. Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Motorsports (a division of TWG Global and GM’s partner), acknowledged that while there’s a pool of talented young drivers, the leadership and technical acumen of Perez and Bottas were paramount for the inaugural season. He also revealed that Cadillac had extensive conversations with Red Bull to understand the circumstances surrounding Perez’s departure, ultimately feeling confident in his desire to make a statement upon his return. [2, 3]
This entry marks a significant moment for American motorsport on the global stage. With Cadillac’s backing and the combined might of Perez and Bottas, the 2026 F1 season promises to be an electrifying one. It’s a new era, and Cadillac is ready to roar.
References
[1] https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/perez-and-bottas-to-make-f1-returns-in-2026-with-cadillac.6sqKNbUEoFjveym9YfGkxQ
[2] https://www.bbc.com/sport/formula1/articles/cedv43dpnqlo
[3] https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/why-cadillac-interrogated-red-bull-before-signing-sergio-perez/