The Impact of Cadillac and Alpine Decisions on Formula 1 Driver Dynamics
As the debut of Cadillac in Formula 1 approaches in 2026, the focus on driver selection has become a hot topic within the paddock. The new team, formed through a partnership between Andretti Global and General Motors, is in the final stages of negotiations. Reports suggest that significant progress has been made with two prominent drivers: Finnish racer Valtteri Bottas and Mexican driver Sergio Pérez. However, Brazilian driver Felipe Drugovich remains a strong candidate, especially if the team opts for a mix of experience and youth.
Valtteri Bottas: A Veteran’s Role in a New Team
Valtteri Bottas has emerged as a pivotal figure for Cadillac, boasting a decade-long career in Formula 1 and ten race victories. His extensive experience could be invaluable for the team as they embark on this new venture. Sources indicate that Bottas has reached a verbal agreement with Cadillac, with only the formalization of the contract pending. His presence could provide not only technical knowledge and consistency but also serve as a guiding figure to facilitate the team’s learning curve during their inaugural year in the sport.
However, Bottas’s previous stint with Sauber raises some concerns. In 2024, he failed to score points, leaving the team languishing at the bottom of the standings. This performance has led to questions about his capability to engage effectively and lead a long-term development project—precisely what Cadillac will face in their first season, where they are likely to be seen as the underdogs on the grid. Additionally, Bottas exhibited signs of frustration during his time at Sauber, which could complicate Cadillac’s assessment of his suitability as a leader for such a challenging endeavor.
Sergio Pérez: Speed, Marketability, and Performance Pressure
Sergio Pérez is also a top contender for a seat with Cadillac. As the 2023 World Championship runner-up and a veteran of Red Bull Racing, Pérez brings a wealth of experience and a strong potential for marketability, particularly in the United States and Latin America. Reports indicate that discussions between Pérez and Cadillac have progressed positively in recent weeks, enhancing the likelihood of an all-experienced driver lineup.
While Pérez’s recent performance with Red Bull may not have yielded a plethora of wins or podium finishes—especially when compared to his teammate’s dominance—he has proven to be a dedicated professional. He consistently fought for improved performance, showcasing his commitment to the team, even under challenging circumstances. This determination could weigh heavily in Cadillac’s evaluation as they search for committed drivers for their long-term plans.
Given the likelihood of no openings at Alpine, Pérez appears to be the front-runner for one of Cadillac’s coveted seats in 2026.
Felipe Drugovich: A Young Talent with Technical Acumen
Despite the focus on Bottas and Pérez, Cadillac is also considering Felipe Drugovich as a potential second driver. Currently serving as the reserve driver for Aston Martin, Drugovich boasts solid credentials, having won the Formula 2 championship in 2022. His adaptability in test programs and technical profile has garnered praise within the paddock. Hiring Drugovich could provide Cadillac with a strategic balance between experienced leadership and youthful energy, while also increasing their appeal to Brazilian fans, who are traditionally passionate about Formula 1.
Although Drugovich is still an emerging talent with limited experience in full Grand Prix events, he has accumulated significant testing mileage with Aston Martin. He recently substituted for Fernando Alonso during a practice session and plays a crucial role in the team’s car development. His responsibilities include simulator work and data correlation between simulations and real track conditions—an essential function for performance improvement. Aston Martin has lauded Drugovich’s execution in these tasks, placing him in a unique position as a driver with a promising future yet possessing technical and operational skills that exceed those of a typical rookie. For Cadillac, this means acquiring a driver who is ready to contribute right away, despite the inevitable challenges of their initial season.
The Alpine Seat and the Ripple Effect
Not long ago, Alpine seemed like a pivotal player in the driver market, but recent developments have limited movement possibilities. Currently, the team fields Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto. Colapinto initially joined to participate in a few races but, despite underwhelming performance, has remained with the team. Recent rumors suggest that he may retain his seat through 2026.
This Alpine seat has considerable implications for the driver lineup. Starting next year, the team will switch to Mercedes engines, and insider information hints that the German power unit could be the most competitive in the new technical era. Moreover, the restructuring led by Flavio Briatore positions Alpine as a more robust and appealing project. Thus, there was anticipation that Pérez might vie for a seat at Alpine, which could, in turn, open a spot for Drugovich at Cadillac.
However, with the apparent intention to keep Gasly and Colapinto together, the landscape is shifting. Without an opportunity at Alpine, Cadillac now stands as Pérez’s last significant chance to remain on the grid in 2026. It’s worth noting that Pérez enjoys strong backing from Carlos Slim, the billionaire owner of the Claro communications group, who has publicly stated that he will do everything possible to keep the driver in Formula 1.
The Strategic Choices Ahead for Cadillac
As Cadillac navigates these complex decisions, the potential pairing of Bottas and Pérez offers a blend of experience and market appeal, which could position the team favorably in its debut season. Bottas could provide the technical leadership necessary to establish a competitive foundation, while Pérez’s marketability could enhance Cadillac’s visibility in North America—a crucial factor for a brand entering the Formula 1 arena.
On the other hand, integrating Drugovich into the lineup could be a strategic masterstroke. His youth and technical experience could foster a dynamic where both drivers learn and grow together, potentially accelerating the development of the car and the overall team effectiveness. The combination of a seasoned driver alongside a promising talent could create a balanced approach that allows Cadillac to compete effectively against established teams.
Conclusion
The decisions made by Cadillac and Alpine regarding their driver lineups will have far-reaching implications in the world of Formula 1. As the 2026 season approaches, the choices made in the coming months will shape not only the futures of the drivers involved but also the competitive landscape of the sport itself. With potential drivers like Bottas, Pérez, and Drugovich in the mix, the interest in how these dynamics unfold will be a focal point for fans and analysts alike. The coming seasons promise to be exciting as new teams like Cadillac enter the fray, challenging the status quo and bringing fresh narratives to the sport.
