Cadillac will make its Formula 1 debut in 2026 with an experienced driver line-up featuring Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas. The American squad, backed by General Motors and led by former Marussia Sporting Director Graeme Lowdon, becomes the sport’s 11th team. Both drivers, with a combined 527 race starts and 16 Grand Prix victories, join on multi-year contracts, signaling Cadillac’s intent to compete seriously from the outset.
Experienced Drivers for a New Team
Perez and Bottas, both 35, return to full-time racing after stepping away from the grid at the end of 2024. Perez, formerly with Red Bull, played a crucial role in securing Constructors’ Championships in 2022 and 2023. Bottas, meanwhile, was integral to Mercedes’ dominance, contributing to five consecutive Constructors’ titles between 2017 and 2021. Lowdon described their signings as a statement of ambition, highlighting their leadership, feedback, and race-winning instincts as key assets for building the new team.
Drivers’ Perspectives
Perez expressed excitement about joining Cadillac, calling it “an incredibly exciting new chapter” and emphasizing the responsibility of helping an American motorsport icon succeed on the world stage. He pledged to work toward turning the team into “a real contender” and invited fans across the Americas to support the project. Bottas echoed these sentiments, praising Cadillac’s long-term vision and describing the opportunity to build a team from scratch as “incredibly special.” Both drivers thanked Mercedes for facilitating the transition.
Cadillac’s Ambition in Formula 1
Dan Towriss, CEO of Cadillac Formula 1 Team and TWG Motorsports, said the drivers embody the qualities needed to define Cadillac’s presence in F1, calling them “builders, collaborators, and professionals.” GM President Mark Reuss added that Perez and Bottas will help establish a lasting legacy for American motorsport under the Cadillac brand. With significant backing from GM, the team aims to carve out a strong identity and competitive future in the sport.
Cadillac’s entry into Formula 1 represents a bold step for American motorsport. With seasoned drivers Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas at the wheel, the team combines experience, talent, and ambition as it prepares for its first season in 2026. The announcement underscores Cadillac’s long-term commitment to becoming a credible force on the F1 grid while strengthening the presence of American manufacturers in the sport.