Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez have been officially confirmed as the Cadillac F1 team drivers as the American outfit prepares to make its highly anticipated debut in the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship.
The announcement marks a pivotal moment for the American automotive giant as it steps onto the Formula 1 grid for the first time, aiming to carve out a significant presence in the most elite motorsport series globally.
The signing of the two seasoned Grand Prix winners marks an end to persistent rumours and speculation linking several drivers to the new seats, albeit recent reports hinted Bottas and Perez were the frontrunners poised for a possible 2026 F1 return.
Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez bring a combined wealth of experience to the fledgling team, totaling 527 Grand Prix starts, 106 podiums, and 16 race wins between them.
Both drivers have a proven track record in Formula 1, having raced for some of the sport’s most successful teams, which makes their acquisition a bold strategic move by Cadillac.
Bottas is renowned for his time at Mercedes where he was a key component of a dominant era that yielded five constructors’ championships from 2017 to 2021 before switching to Sauber for 2024.
With 10 career wins and 58 podium finishes, the Finnish driver’s experience with top-tier teams and his knowledge of the new technical regulations acquired during his reserve role at Mercedes in 2025, will prove invaluable in helping Cadillac navigate the complexities of launching a new F1 outfit.
Sergio Perez hailing from Mexico brings a different but equally rich pedigree. As a six-time Grand Prix winner, Perez has extensive experience, notably with Red Bull Racing where he was a teammate to multiple World Champion Max Verstappen.
Though he faced challenges during his final season with Red Bull in 2024, his pace, racecraft, and ability to deliver crucial points have been proven assets in Formula 1’s highly competitive midfield and winning environments.
Perez’s integration into the Cadillac F1 team is expected to provide leadership and competitive ruthlessness essential for a new team seeking to establish itself quickly.
Valtteri Bottas to serve grid penalty after joining Cadillac amid 2026 F1 rule changes
Lewis Hamilton struggles “exaggerated” as Ferrari boss calls him out for extreme outbursts
Cadillac’s decision to forgo the commonly anticipated path of recruiting at least one American driver in favor of the two veteran drivers underscores the team’s commitment to experience and immediate competitiveness.
“Signing two very experienced racers like Bottas and Checo is a bold signal of intent,” said team principal Graeme Lowdon. “They’ve seen it all and they 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 team to life. A big thank you to the team at Mercedes for their co-operation and understanding.”
Since securing entry to the grid as Formula 1’s 11th team, Cadillac has been working diligently to develop its infrastructure, facilities, and team structure, with a notable focus on collaboration.
The American team has forged a partnership with Ferrari to supply power units for the first two seasons, 2026 and 2027, before planning to transition to in-house engine development by 2028.
This partnership is expected to provide Cadillac with competitive and reliable powertrains as they find their footing in the complex world of Formula 1 technology.
In preparation for their maiden season, Cadillac plans to conduct extensive testing, possibly utilizing older Ferrari chassis under the Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) regulations ahead of 2026 F1.
Such early testing opportunities will be vital for Cadillac F1 team drivers Bottas and Perez to gel with their new team, understand the car’s dynamics under the new rules, and help refine the car’s performance before the competitive campaign begins in earnest.
READ MORE:
F1 driver net worth 2025: The 12 richest drivers on the grid
F1 Drivers’ wives and girlfriends: Who are current Formula 1 stars dating?
