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Cadillac has officially confirmed its long-anticipated Formula 1 driver line-up for 2026, unveiling Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas as the team's first racers when the American marque joins the grid. The announcement ends months of speculation and marks a remarkable return for both drivers after they were dropped at the conclusion of the 2024 season.
Backed by General Motors, Cadillac will join the Formula 1 grid in 2026 as the 11th team, with former Marussia Sporting Director Graeme Lowdon taking charge as team principal. CEO Dan Towriss emphasized that Cadillac's decision was based on proven experience. "We believe their experience, their leadership and their technical acumen are really what we need. It's the right combination, the right drivers at the right time, and we're humbled by their belief in us in this project," he said.
Perez, 35, brings a wealth of experience from stints at Sauber, McLaren, Force India/Racing Point, and most recently Red Bull, where he contributed to consecutive Constructors' Championships in 2022 and 2023. Reflecting on the move, the Mexican said, "Joining the Cadillac Formula 1 Team is an incredibly exciting new chapter in my career. From our first conversations, I could sense the passion and determination behind this project... Cadillac is a legendary name in American motorsport, and to help bring such a fantastic company to Formula 1 is a huge responsibility."
Currently serving as Mercedes' reserve driver, Bottas described Cadillac's approach as inspiring: "From the moment I began speaking with the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, I felt something different – something ambitious but also grounded. This isn't just a racing project; it's a long-term vision. I've had the honour of working with some of the best teams in the world, and I can already see the same professionalism and hunger here."
Meanwhile, Cadillac also shut down speculation linking former Red Bull team boss Christian Horner to its new venture. "There have been no talks with Christian Horner. No plans to do that, so I'd officially shut down the rumour," Towriss clarified.
With its first line-up secured, Cadillac aims to establish itself as a competitive force in Formula 1 while laying the foundation for a long-term American legacy in the sport.
