In a landmark announcement, Cadillac F1 has signed Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez for its 2026 debut campaign. The American team, set to become Formula 1’s 11th entry, will rely on veteran expertise. Therefore, experience will guide Cadillac through the challenges of its first season.
Bottas Returns to Formula 1 with Cadillac
To begin with, Bottas brings 246 grand prix starts, 67 podiums, and 10 victories with Mercedes. The 36-year-old Finn left Sauber in 2024 and later joined Mercedes as a reserve. However, with Mercedes’ approval, he now makes a full-time comeback on the grid.
“From the moment I began speaking with the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, I felt something different – something ambitious but also grounded,” said Bottas. “This isn’t just a racing project; it’s a long-term vision. It’s not every day that you get a chance to be part of something being built from the ground up and helping shape it into something that truly belongs on the F1 grid.
“I’ve had the honor of working with some of the best teams in the world, and I can already see the same professionalism and hunger here. 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.
“I’m looking forward to representing the American spirit of racing on the greatest circuits in the world. I’d also like to thank Mercedes for their unwavering support and sportsmanship in facilitating such an exciting step.”
Perez Starts a New Chapter with Cadillac F1
Similarly, Perez joins Cadillac F1 with vast experience and renewed motivation. He was released by Red Bull after a turbulent 2024 season. Nevertheless, his record remains impressive with 281 starts, 39 podiums, and six wins. Notably, his first victory came at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix with Racing Point.
“Joining the Cadillac Formula 1 Team is an incredibly exciting new chapter in my career,” Perez said. “From our first conversations, I could sense the passion and determination behind this project. It’s an honor to be part of a 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 we want to make everyone proud.”
Cadillac F1 Aims to Build from the Ground Up
Overall, the addition of Bottas and Perez highlights Cadillac’s intent to combine experience with ambition. Both drivers provide leadership, racecraft, and resilience, qualities that are essential for a new team. Moreover, their presence ensures Cadillac will have steady guidance during its learning curve.
Ultimately, the announcement confirms Cadillac’s serious commitment to Formula 1. With two seasoned veterans at the wheel, the American brand enters 2026 ready to write a new chapter in motorsport history.
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