The Cadillac Formula 1 Team confirms Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas as its inaugural 2026 F1 drivers. Discover their journey, Cadillac’s F1 entry, GM’s vision, and how this American squad plans to reshape Formula 1.
Cadillac Formula 1 Team Announces Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas for 2026 Season
The Cadillac Formula 1 Team has officially revealed its driver line-up for the 2026 Formula 1 season, confirming two seasoned veterans, Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas, to lead the American squad in their debut campaign. Backed by General Motors (GM) and managed by former Marussia Sporting Director Graeme Lowdon, Cadillac will become the sport’s 11th team when it joins the grid next season.
This marks a historic return for both Perez and Bottas, who bring decades of experience, leadership, and championship pedigree to Cadillac’s bold new F1 project.
Cadillac Formula 1 Team’s Bold Entry into F1
The Cadillac Formula 1 Team enters the pinnacle of motorsport with heavy backing from General Motors and its motorsport division. With Formula 1 expanding globally and America becoming a major market with three Grands Prix (Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas), Cadillac’s arrival aligns perfectly with F1’s U.S. growth strategy.
Graeme Lowdon emphasized that the team wanted drivers who were more than just fast. They needed leaders who could help build a competitive squad from the ground up. Perez and Bottas checked every box.
“Signing two very experienced racers like Bottas and Checo is a bold signal of intent,” Lowdon explained. “Their leadership, feedback, and race-hardened instincts will be invaluable as we bring this team to life.”
Why Cadillac Chose Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas
Both drivers lost their permanent F1 seats at the end of the 2024 season, but their resumes remain some of the strongest on the grid.
- Sergio Perez, Mexico’s most successful F1 driver, brings 13 career wins and experience across Sauber, McLaren, Force India/Racing Point, and Red Bull Racing, where he contributed to multiple Constructors’ Championships.
- Valtteri Bottas has 10 career victories and was instrumental in Mercedes’ dominance between 2017 and 2021, supporting Lewis Hamilton in the team’s record-setting run of Constructors’ titles.
Both drivers are 35 years old, but their experience and proven ability to adapt to different teams and cars make them ideal leaders for a new project like Cadillac.
Driver Profiles: Perez vs Bottas
| Driver | Nationality | Career Starts | Race Wins | Teams Raced For | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sergio Perez | Mexican | 258+ | 6+ | Sauber, McLaren, Force India, Racing Point, Red Bull | Helped Red Bull secure back-to-back Constructors’ titles |
| Valtteri Bottas | Finnish | 269+ | 10 | Williams, Mercedes, Alfa Romeo/Sauber | Integral to Mercedes’ 2017–2021 dominance |
The Cadillac Formula 1 Team is betting on their combined 527 Grand Prix starts and 16 victories to accelerate development and competitiveness.
Perez on Joining the Cadillac Formula 1 Team
After leaving Red Bull at the end of 2024, Perez considered stepping away from F1. However, Cadillac’s ambitious project reignited his passion:
“Joining the Cadillac Formula 1 Team is an incredibly exciting new chapter,” Perez said. “Cadillac is a legendary name in American motorsport, and I’m proud to be part of such a meaningful project. We want to be the team of the Americas.”
Perez’s arrival also brings a massive fan base from Latin America, where he remains one of the most popular athletes.
Bottas on His Comeback with Cadillac
After three seasons with Sauber/Kick and a 2025 stint as Mercedes reserve driver, Bottas saw Cadillac as the perfect new challenge:
“This isn’t just a racing project; it’s a long-term vision,” Bottas explained. “It’s rare to be part of something built from the ground up. Cadillac has an iconic brand and the hunger to succeed.”
Bottas also credited Mercedes for supporting his move to Cadillac, calling it a “special opportunity” to return to the F1 grid.
Cadillac Formula 1 Team’s Vision for 2026
Cadillac’s leadership, including TWG Motorsports CEO Dan Towriss and GM President Mark Reuss, emphasized that Perez and Bottas were chosen for more than just their racing ability.
- They bring maturity and professionalism.
- They have experience working with championship-winning teams.
- They can provide critical technical feedback to engineers.
Mark Reuss summarized it:
“Together, we’re building the foundation for American motorsports that will leave an extraordinary legacy for Cadillac, GM, and Formula 1.”
Challenges Ahead for the Cadillac Formula 1 Team
While excitement is high, challenges remain:
- New Team Syndrome – Historically, new teams struggle in their first seasons.
- Regulation Adaptation—The 2026 F1 rules will feature new power unit regulations focused on sustainable fuel and increased electrical power.
- Resource Competition—Competing against established giants like Red Bull, Ferrari, and Mercedes will require strategic resource allocation.
However, with GM’s financial strength and Cadillac’s racing heritage, the team believes it can fast-track progress.
American Motorsport Heritage Meets Global F1 Stage
Cadillac is no stranger to motorsport, having competed in IMSA SportsCar Championship and Le Mans. Its move to F1 continues America’s push into global racing prestige.
With F1 rapidly expanding in the U.S. market, the Cadillac Formula 1 Team represents more than just another entry. It symbolizes American automotive power stepping onto the world’s biggest racing stage.
Potential Impact of Perez and Bottas on the Cadillac Formula 1 Team
The presence of Perez and Bottas could help Cadillac:
- Attract sponsorships and commercial deals.
- Accelerate car development with their technical expertise.
- Provide mentorship to younger drivers. Cadillac may bring it in later.
- Strengthen F1’s popularity in both Latin America and the U.S.
Their comeback stories also generate significant fan interest, giving Cadillac a boost in global recognition.
Future Outlook: Can Cadillac Compete at the Front?
Experts predict that Cadillac’s first seasons may mirror Alfa Romeo, Haas, or Aston Martin’s early struggles, but with steady progress, the team could become a midfield contender.
If Perez and Bottas stay motivated and Cadillac harnesses GM’s resources effectively, the Cadillac Formula 1 Team could establish itself as the most successful American F1 project in history.
FAQs on Cadillac Formula 1 Team
1. Who are the drivers for the Cadillac Formula 1 Team in 2026?
The Cadillac Formula 1 Team confirmed Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas as their 2026 drivers.
2. Why did Cadillac choose Perez and Bottas?
Both bring a combined 527 starts and 16 wins, making them experienced leaders capable of guiding a new team.
3. When will Cadillac join Formula 1?
The Cadillac Formula 1 Team will debut in the 2026 Formula 1 season as the sport’s 11th team.
4. Is Cadillac backed by General Motors?
Yes, Cadillac’s entry into Formula 1 is fully backed by General Motors (GM) and its motorsport division.
5. Can Cadillac challenge top F1 teams immediately?
Unlikely in year one, but with Perez, Bottas, and GM’s resources, Cadillac aims to become competitive within a few seasons.
📌 Conclusion
The Cadillac Formula 1 Team has made a powerful statement by signing Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas for its inaugural 2026 F1 season. More than just drivers, they are leaders tasked with building a competitive American team that carries Cadillac’s motorsport legacy to the world stage.
Their combined experience, fan following, and determination could make Cadillac not only the “team of the Americas” but also a long-term competitor in Formula 1.