Sergio Perez believes that he and Valtteri Bottas have the right blend of experience and determination to turn Cadillac into “a real contender” when the American marque makes its long-awaited Formula 1 debut in 2026.
Cadillac Joins the Grid in 2026
Cadillac will enter F1 as the sport’s 11th team, backed by General Motors. After months of speculation, the team confirmed Perez and Bottas as its debut line-up, immediately establishing one of the most experienced pairings on the grid.
Between them, the duo brings:
- 527 grand prix starts
- 106 podium finishes
- 16 race wins
For a new team starting from scratch, this wealth of knowledge is invaluable. Both drivers know how to win, but also how to extract results in the midfield – a likely battleground for Cadillac in its formative years.
Perez’s Chance to Rebuild
Little has been seen of Perez since his departure from Red Bull at the end of 2024. After four seasons with the reigning champions, he exited quietly, having played the loyal supporting role in Max Verstappen’s championship dominance.
Now 35, Perez views Cadillac as a golden opportunity to reignite his Formula 1 career while shaping the identity of a brand-new team.
“Joining the Cadillac Formula 1 team is an incredibly exciting new chapter in my career,” said Perez. “From our first conversations, I could sense the passion and determination behind this project.
“It’s an honour to be part of building a team that can develop together so that, in time, we will fight at the very front. Cadillac is a legendary name in American motorsport, and to help bring such a fantastic company to Formula 1 is a huge responsibility, one I’m confident of taking on.
“I’m proud to be part of such an ambitious and meaningful project from the very beginning. I’m really pleased to be part of such a dynamic line-up, and together I believe we can help shape this team into a real contender — the team of the Americas.
“We’re counting on support from across the continent and want to make everyone proud.”
Bottas Adds Stability and Experience
While Perez took time away from the sport in 2025, Bottas remained closely involved as a Mercedes reserve driver and mentor to rookie Kimi Antonelli. The Finn also tested with McLaren, keeping sharp in case a race seat opened up.
For Cadillac, Bottas offers technical insight, steady leadership, and the calm experience of a driver who has spent nearly a decade inside title-contending machinery. His presence alongside Perez ensures the new team starts with a solid foundation.
Cadillac’s Long-Term Ambition
Cadillac will partner with Ferrari as an engine supplier for its first two seasons before launching its own in-house power unit for 2028. The project has already attracted attention from Hollywood, with Keanu Reeves producing a documentary chronicling the team’s journey from inception to its debut.
The combination of American backing, seasoned drivers, and long-term planning has sparked excitement that Cadillac could quickly establish itself as more than just a midfield runner.
