Cadillac Acknowledges Sergio Perez Was Missing Key Upgrade Component in Miami

Cadillac team principal Graeme Lowdon confirmed that Sergio Perez did not have a full set of the team's major Miami upgrade package during sprint qualifying, a factor that may have hindered his performance. Despite this, Perez still significantly outpaced teammate Valtteri Bottas, though both drivers were eliminated in SQ1. The team also admitted an operational error—a trip to the FIA weighbridge—cost Perez a potential second run that could have seen him progress to the next session.

Why it matters:

For a new team like Cadillac, operational precision and equitable resource distribution are critical benchmarks of progress. An admission that one driver lacked a performance part, coupled with a strategic misstep, highlights the growing pains the American outfit still faces as it seeks to establish itself in the midfield. These small details can be the difference between Q2 and Q1, directly impacting race weekend momentum and points opportunities.

The details:

• Cadillac introduced a substantial aerodynamic upgrade in Miami, featuring a new floor, front wing, diffuser, and rear suspension—a significant evolution from its season-opening car.
• Team Principal Graeme Lowdon stated the upgrades were on both cars, but Perez was "missing one part that may have added a little bit." The team has a rotation system for new parts, agreed upon with the drivers.
• A key operational error occurred when Perez's car was called to the FIA weighbridge after his first run. This process consumed time, leaving the team unable to refuel the car and send him out for a second attempt.
• Lowdon believes that second run was a missed opportunity, stating Perez "could potentially have made it to SQ2."
• Perez echoed this sentiment, expressing happiness with his single lap's pace but frustration at the lost opportunity. He also noted lost track time in practice, putting the team "a bit on the back foot."

What's next:

The immediate focus for Cadillac is converting its clear performance step into a cleaner race day. Perez emphasized the need for a "smooth day tomorrow" to properly maximize the new package's potential in the Grand Prix. While the upgrades show tangible progress, this weekend has underscored that eliminating procedural errors is just as important as car development for the team to consistently fight for points.