Cadillac has reiterated that it is not in a hurry to finalize its driver lineup for its debut in Formula 1 in 2026. This announcement comes amid increasing speculation surrounding potential candidates such as Mick Schumacher and Sergio Perez. The American team, backed by General Motors, is set to become the 11th entrant on the grid as the new regulatory cycle begins. Currently, Cadillac is engaged in meticulous planning and market analysis to ensure a successful entry into the highly competitive world of Formula 1.
Dan Towriss, the CEO of TWG Motorsports, has emphasized that despite the buzz and interest surrounding the driver selection, no decisions have been made at this stage. “We are not rushing to choose our drivers. There are many factors that come into play for this decision,” Towriss stated. He noted the accuracy of the names circulating in the media but found it amusing to wake up each day to reports suggesting that negotiations are already in the final stages. “The list of names being discussed is indeed correct, but I find it curious to read that we are close to concluding negotiations,” he added.
Towriss highlighted the importance of securing at least one experienced driver to help guide the team during its initial phase in Formula 1. “Performance is crucial, but having experience is essential. We need someone who can aid in the car’s development, both on the track and in the simulator,” he explained. This emphasis on experience reflects Cadillac’s commitment to building a strong foundation for its F1 team, ensuring that they are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of this elite motorsport.
The team is being led by Graeme Lowdon, a former executive at Manor, and is receiving technical support from Eric Warren, the director of GM Motorsports. With such seasoned professionals at the helm, Cadillac is strategically structuring its project to maximize its chances for success. “We are gathering as much information as possible to make the right decision. Conversations are ongoing, and there is significant interest in the team, which is fantastic,” Towriss remarked.
Mick Schumacher’s name has resurfaced in the conversation, particularly after his attendance at Cadillac’s launch event during the Miami Grand Prix weekend. According to the German newspaper Bild, Schumacher is among the candidates being considered by the team. The son of seven-time champion Michael Schumacher, Mick raced for Haas during the 2021 and 2022 seasons. Since then, he has made a name for himself in the World Endurance Championship (WEC), currently competing for Alpine, where he has achieved three podium finishes in eleven races.
Sebastian Vettel, the four-time world champion who has taken on a mentorship role for Schumacher, has publicly supported the idea of giving his compatriot another chance in F1. “He has matured significantly and is doing an excellent job at Alpine. It would be great to see him back in Formula 1 with Cadillac,” Vettel stated in an interview with Sport.de. “We are in touch, and I know how things ended for him in Formula 1. I’m rooting for him because I believe he can compete at a high level,” the German concluded, highlighting the shared camaraderie and aspirations within the racing community.
Another prominent name that has emerged in discussions is Sergio Perez, who is currently without a team after his dismissal from Red Bull Racing at the end of the last season. Reports suggest that he is also in talks with the American outfit. Perez, who has a wealth of experience in F1, could potentially provide the kind of expertise that Cadillac is looking for as it navigates its entry into this highly competitive arena.
As Cadillac gears up for its debut, the anticipation surrounding the team’s driver selection is palpable. The choice of drivers will play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s identity and success in the Formula 1 landscape. With established drivers like Schumacher and Perez on the radar, Cadillac has the opportunity to make a significant impact right from the start.
In the world of motorsport, driver experience can often be the difference between success and struggle. Cadillac’s strategy to prioritize experienced drivers for its inaugural season reflects a thoughtful approach to building a competitive team. By focusing on candidates who can contribute not just in terms of performance but also in car development, the team aims to create a strong foundation for future growth.
The collaboration with General Motors adds another layer of support to Cadillac’s F1 ambitions. With access to vast resources and technical expertise, Cadillac is well-positioned to make a meaningful entry into Formula 1. The backing of a major automotive manufacturer like GM is likely to enhance the team’s capabilities and provide a competitive edge as they seek to establish themselves on the grid.
As the 2026 season approaches, the excitement continues to build around Cadillac’s entry into Formula 1. The combination of innovative engineering, strategic planning, and the potential lineup of drivers creates a compelling narrative for fans and stakeholders alike. The selection of the right drivers will not only reflect Cadillac’s ambitions but also influence the team’s trajectory in the coming years.
Overall, as Cadillac navigates this crucial phase of its F1 project, the focus remains on making informed decisions that will set the stage for a successful debut. The discussions around potential drivers like Mick Schumacher and Sergio Perez indicate a keen awareness of the importance of experience and talent in the high-stakes environment of Formula 1 racing. With a commitment to excellence and a vision for the future, Cadillac is poised to make its mark in the world of motorsport.
