Cadillac has officially announced its long-anticipated driver lineup for the 2026 Formula 1 season, selecting two of the most experienced names on the grid: Sergio “Checo” Pérez and Valtteri Bottas. The decision reflects a pragmatic approach by the American brand, which will make its debut as the 11th team in the sport with strong backing from General Motors and TWG Motorsports.
Together, Pérez and Bottas bring over a decade of top-level competition, more than 500 combined race starts, and more than 100 podium finishes, offering Cadillac a foundation of proven talent and invaluable knowledge in its first campaign. Pérez, currently competing with Red Bull Racing, has enjoyed a highly successful career that includes six Grand Prix victories, multiple podium finishes, and a reputation as one of the sport’s most consistent performers.
Known as a tire management specialist and a reliable points scorer, Pérez has shown resilience in adapting to different teams throughout his career, from Sauber and Force India to Racing Point and Red Bull. His experience fighting at the very front of the grid in recent seasons is expected to help Cadillac quickly identify competitive strategies and provide leadership both on and off the track.
On the other side of the garage will be Valtteri Bottas, the Finnish driver who spent five successful years with Mercedes alongside Lewis Hamilton, collecting 10 Grand Prix wins and playing a key role in multiple Constructors’ Championships. Currently with Alfa Romeo-Sauber, Bottas has established himself as a technically gifted and consistent racer, bringing crucial development expertise to Cadillac’s ambitious new project.
His calm demeanor, combined with sharp racecraft and experience working within a dominant team environment, makes him an ideal figure to help Cadillac transition smoothly into Formula 1’s new regulatory era. Team Principal Graeme Lowdon explained that the decision to secure two veteran drivers was strategic, prioritizing stability and immediate competitiveness over the risks of building around rookie talent.
Although several younger drivers such as Mick Schumacher, Felipe Drugovich, and Jack Doohan were considered, Cadillac ultimately favored the maturity and credibility that Pérez and Bottas provide. The move also sends a clear message that Cadillac intends to compete, not just participate, from day one in Formula 1. The announcement also addressed persistent rumors surrounding Cadillac’s management structure, particularly speculation that former Red Bull team boss Christian Horner might join the project. Cadillac firmly dismissed those reports, affirming its commitment to a fresh identity built around the current leadership team headed by Dan
Towriss and supported by General Motors. By combining strong technical resources, financial backing, and two drivers with proven records at the highest level, Cadillac aims to make an immediate impact on the sport, further expanding Formula 1’s global reach and strengthening American involvement on the grid. With the 2026 season marking a major regulatory reset featuring new power unit rules and a greater emphasis on sustainable fuels, Cadillac’s timing appears deliberate.
The presence of Pérez and Bottas provides not only credibility but also the confidence that the team can fight for points quickly and evolve into a competitive force. Fans across the globe will now watch closely as Cadillac prepares its entry, hopeful that this bold new chapter will bring excitement, fresh rivalries, and perhaps, in time, victories that could cement the brand’s place in Formula 1 history.
