Cadillac joins Formula 1 in 2026 with a bold move—signing Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez as their drivers for the debut season!
Cadillac is officially stepping into the world of Formula 1 in 2026, and they’ve made a statement that’s impossible to ignore. The American automaker has revealed its driver lineup for its debut F1 season, and guess who’s leading the charge? Two seasoned Grand Prix winners—Valtteri Bottas and Sergio ‘Checo’ Perez.
With a combined 527 race starts and 16 Grand Prix victories, these two drivers bring not just speed but also experience, leadership, and grit to Cadillac’s new journey in Formula 1. Backed by General Motors and led by former Marussia Sporting Director Graeme Lowdon, Cadillac is entering the grid as the 11th team—and they’re aiming big.
But why Bottas and Perez? What makes this duo so special for Cadillac’s ambitious project? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this major F1 shake-up.
Cadillac’s Bold Entry into Formula 1
For years, F1 fans have dreamed of another American team joining the grid, and Cadillac is making it happen. With the 2026 season introducing new engine regulations, Cadillac sees a golden opportunity to break into the sport at the perfect time. Backed by General Motors, the brand isn’t here to make up the numbers—they want to compete.
Why the 2026 Season is Special
2026 is no ordinary year for Formula 1. The new power unit regulations, focused on sustainability and hybrid efficiency, will level the playing field. For Cadillac, this is the perfect time to bring their engineering expertise and innovation to the world stage. It’s like joining a marathon when everyone starts fresh—only the smartest and most prepared will shine.
Meet the Drivers: Sergio ‘Checo’ Perez
When you think of Sergio Perez, you think of determination and comeback stories. The Mexican star has driven for Sauber, McLaren, Force India/Racing Point, and Red Bull, leaving his mark everywhere he went. Known for his tire management skills and racecraft, Perez has always been a fighter on the track.
Perez’s Journey from Red Bull to Cadillac
After leaving Red Bull, Perez took time off to reflect on his future. Now, he’s back, motivated, and ready to make history with Cadillac. Perez himself said it best:
“It’s an honor to help build a team from the ground up and bring Cadillac to Formula 1. This is a huge responsibility, and I’m confident we’ll make America proud.”
Meet Valtteri Bottas: The Silent Warrior
If Perez is the street fighter, Bottas is the quiet sniper—calm, composed, and incredibly fast. The Finnish driver played a key role in Mercedes’ dominance from 2017 to 2021, helping the team secure multiple Constructors’ Championships.
Bottas’ Mercedes Glory and Beyond
After leaving Mercedes and spending time as a reserve driver, Bottas now gets the chance to lead Cadillac’s new chapter. His experience with top teams will be crucial in shaping the car and guiding the team culture.
Why Experience Matters for Cadillac
Starting an F1 team from scratch is no small feat. You need leaders who understand every aspect of racing. Bottas and Perez have been in the pressure cooker of Formula 1 for years—they know how to handle the heat. Their input during development and their ability to mentor young engineers will be invaluable.
Graeme Lowdon’s Vision for the Team
Graeme Lowdon, who previously worked with Marussia, knows what it takes to build a team in F1’s competitive environment. His choice to prioritize experience over rookies speaks volumes about Cadillac’s long-term strategy. This isn’t about flashy headlines; it’s about results.
General Motors and the American Dream in F1
Cadillac’s entry represents something bigger—a revival of American pride in Formula 1. With Liberty Media pushing the sport in the U.S. through Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas races, Cadillac will be the home favorite for millions of American fans.
Multi-Year Deals: A Long-Term Commitment
Both Bottas and Perez are locked in on multi-year contracts, signaling that Cadillac is not looking for a quick stint but a strong foundation for the future. They want to grow, learn, and eventually fight for podiums.
Cadillac’s Plan to Build an Iconic F1 Team
From world-class facilities to top engineers, Cadillac is putting all the pieces together. The drivers are just one part of a much bigger puzzle. The goal? To be a team of the Americas—a symbol of excellence and ambition.
Fans’ Reaction: The American Motorsport Revolution
Social media exploded with reactions as soon as the announcement dropped. Fans are excited to see two experienced drivers lead Cadillac’s debut. Could this be the start of a new F1 rivalry between American and European powerhouses?
What This Means for the F1 Grid in 2026
With Cadillac joining, the grid expands to 11 teams, making the championship even more competitive. Expect the midfield battle to heat up like never before. And if Cadillac nails their strategy, they could even challenge for big points sooner than expected.
Can Cadillac Compete with the Big Guns?
It’s too early to say, but with GM’s financial muscle, experienced drivers, and fresh ideas, Cadillac isn’t coming to play catch-up—they’re coming to win.
Final Thoughts: A New Era Begins
Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez joining Cadillac for the 2026 season is more than a driver announcement—it’s a statement of intent. This isn’t just about racing; it’s about creating an American legacy in Formula 1. Buckle up, because the 2026 season just got a whole lot more exciting.
FAQs
1. When will Cadillac join Formula 1?
Cadillac will make its F1 debut in the 2026 season, coinciding with new engine regulations.
2. Who are Cadillac’s drivers for 2026?
Cadillac has signed Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez on multi-year deals.
3. Why did Cadillac choose experienced drivers instead of rookies?
Experience is key when building a new F1 team. Bottas and Perez bring leadership, technical feedback, and proven race-winning skills.
4. Will Cadillac use their own engine in F1?
Yes, Cadillac will be working under the General Motors power unit project, aligning with F1’s new regulations for hybrid engines.
5. Can Cadillac become a competitive F1 team quickly?
It will take time, but with strong funding, experienced drivers, and a clear vision, Cadillac could become a serious contender in the future.
