Cadillac has confirmed a blockbuster driver line-up for its debut Formula 1 campaign in 2026, signing former race winners Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas on multi-year deals.
The American outfit, owned by General Motors, will field one of the most experienced pairings on the grid, with the duo boasting a combined 527 Grand Prix starts and 16 race victories.
Pérez, who retired from Red Bull Racing at the end of 2024, makes a highly anticipated return to the grid, while Bottas rejoins full-time competition after serving as a Mercedes reserve driver throughout the 2025 season.
The team will be spearheaded by Graeme Lowdon, previously Sporting Director at Marussia. Speaking to F1.com, Lowdon described the signings as a major statement of intent:
“Bringing in two very experienced racers like Bottas and Checo is a bold signal of intent. They’ve seen it all and know what it takes to succeed in Formula 1. But more importantly, they understand what it means to help build a team. Their leadership, feedback, race-hardened instincts and, of course, their speed will be invaluable as we bring this project to life. A big thank you also to Mercedes for their co-operation and understanding.”
Pérez: “An exciting new chapter”
For Pérez, the move represents not just a return to Formula 1 but also the opportunity to be part of a historic American project:
“Joining the Cadillac Formula 1 Team is an incredibly exciting new chapter in my career. From the very first conversations, I felt the passion and determination behind this project. Cadillac is a legendary name in American motorsport, and bringing it to Formula 1 is a huge responsibility – one I’m confident of taking on. I’m proud to be part of such an ambitious project from the very beginning. Together with Valtteri, I believe we can shape this team into a real contender, the team of the Americas.”
Bottas: “Not just a racing project”
Bottas echoed the excitement, highlighting Cadillac’s long-term vision:
“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. It’s not every day you get the chance to help build something from the ground up and shape it into a team that truly belongs on the F1 grid. Cadillac is an iconic brand with a proud legacy in American motorsport, and to represent that spirit on the world stage is incredibly special. I’d also like to thank Mercedes for their unwavering support in making this move possible.”
A new American chapter for F1
With Cadillac joining the grid in 2026 under the new power unit regulations, the brand aims to establish itself as the flagship American team in Formula 1. The addition of two seasoned campaigners in Pérez and Bottas underlines its ambition not just to participate, but to compete.