Bottas Rings in New Year with a Nod to Upcoming Cadillac F1 Switch

Valtteri Bottas is embracing his future with a fun New Year's post that celebrates his upcoming move to the Cadillac F1 team. The veteran driver, who spent 2025 on the sidelines, is set to partner Sergio Perez in one of the most experienced line-ups on the grid for the new GM-backed outfit's debut season in 2026.

Why it matters:

Bottas's return to a full-time race seat with a new manufacturer is a significant storyline for the 2026 season. The pairing of Bottas and Perez provides Cadillac with immediate credibility and a wealth of knowledge, crucial for a fledgling team navigating the complexities of Formula 1. This move also marks a new chapter for Bottas after a year away from racing, reuniting him with a competitive challenge.

The details:

• Veteran Presence: Bottas brings 246 Grand Prix starts and 10 race wins to the team, having previously driven for Williams, Mercedes, and Alfa Romeo.
• Experienced Line-up: Alongside Sergio Perez, the duo forms one of the most experienced driver pairings on the grid, offering invaluable feedback for a new constructor.
• A Year Off: The 2025 season saw Bottas without a race drive after losing his seat at the team transitioning to Audi, though he served as a reserve driver for Mercedes.
• Off-Track Grind: He kept busy by cycling an impressive 16,639 kilometers—more than the total race distance of the 2024 F1 season.

What's next:

All eyes will be on the Cadillac project as it prepares for its 2026 debut, with the new regulations providing a level playing field for new entrants. Bottas and Perez's experience will be key to developing the car quickly and challenging for points from the outset. The team's performance will be a major indicator of General Motors' commitment and ability to compete at the highest level of motorsport.