Cadillac have officially announced its complete driver line-up for the 2026 Formula 1 season. Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez will join the American outfit for their inaugural season next year. Marking a significant milestone for the team.
Veteran Valtteri Bottas has a decade of F1 experience. Bringing with him consistency and technical knowledge to Cadillac’s first season. Pérez, meanwhile, adds proven race-winning pedigree, making the duo one of the most experienced line-ups on the grid.
The pair of drivers have been a part of two of the strongest teams in the past seasons of Formula 1. Therefore, they know what it takes to have a winning team surrounding them. This mentality and experience are something that Team CEO Graeme Lowdon is excited about for 2026.
“Signing two very experienced racers like Bottas and Checo is a bold signal of intent.”
“They’ve seen it all and they know what it takes to succeed in Formula 1. But more importantly, they understand what it means to help build a team. Their leadership, feedback, race-hardened instincts and of course their speed will be invaluable as we bring this team to life”
A new era for Bottas
The Finnish driver, who has previously raced for Williams, Mercedes, and Sauber, brings with him a wealth of experience. With 10 Grand Prix victories, 67 podiums, and a vital role in Mercedes’ Constructors’ Championship dominance from 2017 to 2021, Bottas has proven his ability to both deliver results and contribute to team development. This experience will be essential for Cadillac as they prepare to compete against some of the biggest teams in Motorsport.
Speaking on this opportunity to return to the F1 Grid, Bottas remained quietly optimistic about Cadillac’s chances next season. Whilst also being excited about returning to the spotlight of Formula 1.
“I’ve had the honour 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.”
Starting fresh with a new team
The veteran’s career has spanned over a decade in Formula 1. Debuting with Williams in 2013, Bottas quickly rose through the ranks, earning a move to Mercedes in 2017, where he partnered Lewis Hamilton. Together, they created one of the most dominant pairings in Formula 1 history. Securing multiple Constructors and Drivers championships. However, following the 2021 season, Valtteri Bottas spent three seasons with Sauber, helping to rebuild their team.
Bottas has truly seen it all in his time on the Formula 1 grid; however, there’s one more challenge he is left to conquer. Helping set the foundations for Cadillac’s maiden F1 campaign.
“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.“
An exciting return for Pérez
Sergio Pérez completes the Cadillac line-up in 2026. The Mexican driver has previously raced at Sauber, McLaren, Force India, Racing Point and Red Bull Racing. Over his long-time career, Checo rose to popularity amongst his home fans. Securing six Grand Prix victories and over 30 podium finishes in the sport. Additionally, he played a crucial role in helping Red Bull’s previous Constructors’ championship successes.
Pérez’s experience within the top team and racing alongside four-time world champion Max Verstappen will be invaluable for Cadillac.
Speaking on the opportunity to join Cadillac for their maiden Formula 1 campaign, Pérez expressed optimism about the team’s potential while also reflecting on the chance to take on a fresh challenge at this stage in his career.
“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.”
A new beginning
Pérez’s Formula 1 career has spanned well over a decade. Making his debut with Sauber in 2011, he quickly established himself as a reliable points-scorer. As his career evolved, his maiden Formula 1 race victory with Racing Point in Sakhir earned him a spot at Red Bull. The pair of Verstappen and Pérez quickly became one of the most dominant pairings of recent years. However, after leaving Red Bull at the end of the 2024 season, Pérez has unfinished business in Formula 1.
“Joining the Cadillac Formula 1 Team is an incredibly exciting new chapter in my career. 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.”
