Cadillac F1 Team Welcomes Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez for 2026 Season

The recently established Cadillac Formula 1 team has made headlines by officially announcing that seasoned drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez will be part of its driver lineup for the 2026 season. This strategic move reflects the team’s commitment to leveraging the extensive experience of these two drivers as they embark on their inaugural season in the highly competitive world of Formula 1.

Valtteri Bottas: A Proven Competitor with a Wealth of Experience

Valtteri Bottas, a name synonymous with speed and skill in the world of motorsport, brings a wealth of experience to the Cadillac F1 team. With a remarkable record of 246 Grand Prix starts, Bottas has achieved an impressive 67 podium finishes and secured 10 victories, all of which were with the renowned Mercedes team. As he approaches his 36th birthday, Bottas is eager to return to the forefront of racing after leaving Sauber at the end of the 2024 season. Following a period as a reserve driver with Mercedes, he is now ready to make a full comeback to the grid.

In expressing his enthusiasm for joining the Cadillac F1 team, Bottas shared his initial impressions of the organization. “From the moment I began speaking with the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, I felt something different – something ambitious but also grounded,” he stated. Bottas emphasized that this opportunity goes beyond merely participating in races; it represents a long-term vision for the team. “It’s not every day that you get a chance to be part of something being built from the ground up,” he noted, highlighting the unique nature of this endeavor.

Bottas also acknowledged the significance of being associated with Cadillac, a brand with a rich legacy in American motorsport. “This is an iconic brand with a big legacy in American motorsport, and to be a part of the story as it enters the world stage of F1 is incredibly special for me,” he remarked. His excitement about representing American racing culture on some of the most prestigious circuits in the world is palpable. He also took a moment to express gratitude towards Mercedes for their support throughout his career, particularly during this transition.

Sergio Perez: Aiming for Renewal and Competitive Spirit

Joining Bottas in the Cadillac F1 team is Sergio Perez, who enters this new chapter after being released from Red Bull amid mixed performances alongside teammate Max Verstappen. At 35 years old, Perez is eager to revitalize his career as he embarks on a fresh journey in Formula 1. With a remarkable track record of 281 Grand Prix starts and a total of six wins, including his first victory with Racing Point at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix, Perez is determined to make his mark once again.

“Joining the Cadillac Formula 1 Team is an incredibly exciting new chapter in my career," Perez stated, reflecting on the passion that drove him to be part of this ambitious project. He feels a strong sense of responsibility to contribute to the growth of the team, aiming for a future where they can compete at the highest level. “It’s an honor to be part of building a team that can develop together so that, in time, we will fight at the very front,” he expressed.

Like Bottas, Perez recognizes the significance of the Cadillac name. He acknowledges it as a legendary figure in American motorsport and is deeply aware of the responsibility that comes with representing such a prestigious brand. “To help bring such a fantastic company to Formula 1 is a huge responsibility, one I’m confident of taking on,” he said, indicating his commitment to the team’s vision.

The Mexican driver is enthusiastic about the dynamic pairing with Bottas and believes that together they can shape the Cadillac F1 team into a formidable contender. “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,” he declared. Perez is not only focused on personal success but is also keen on rallying support from fans across the continent, aiming to make them proud of the team’s achievements.

The Vision for Cadillac F1

The Cadillac F1 team is not merely entering Formula 1; it is embarking on a journey to establish itself as a competitive force in the sport. The decision to field two experienced drivers like Bottas and Perez underscores the team’s strategy to build a solid foundation from the outset. With the challenges that come with a debut season, having drivers who possess extensive knowledge of the sport is invaluable.

Both Bottas and Perez are not just skilled racers; they are also experienced in navigating the intricacies of Formula 1, from car development to race strategy. This experience will be crucial as the Cadillac team works to establish itself within the competitive landscape of F1. The insights and expertise that Bottas and Perez bring to the table will be instrumental in shaping the team’s direction and performance.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

As the Cadillac F1 team prepares for its inaugural season, it faces a myriad of challenges that come with entering such a fast-paced and demanding sport. The established teams in Formula 1 have years of experience, advanced technology, and deep-rooted strategies that will make the competition fierce. However, the fresh perspective and the ambitious vision of the Cadillac team could serve as an advantage.

With Bottas and Perez at the helm, the team aims to carve out its niche in the sport. Both drivers have experienced the highs and lows of racing, and they understand the importance of teamwork, communication, and resilience. This collective experience will be vital as the team works through the initial hurdles of establishing itself on the grid.

The Cadillac F1 team is poised to not only compete but also to contribute to the evolution of Formula 1. By embracing innovation and focusing on long-term goals, the team hopes to create a legacy that resonates with fans and stakeholders alike. The journey will undoubtedly be challenging, but with a strong driver lineup and a clear vision, Cadillac is ready to make its mark in the world of Formula 1.

Conclusion

In summary, the Cadillac F1 team has made a bold statement by securing Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez for its debut season in 2026. With their combined experience and competitive spirit, the team is poised to take on the challenges of Formula 1 and strive for excellence. As Cadillac embarks on this exciting journey, the motorsport community eagerly anticipates the impact of this new entrant in the world of racing.