Cadillac F1 completes first shakedown with Ferrari power unit at Silverstone

Cadillac F1 marked a significant milestone in its Formula 1 entry by completing its first shakedown at the Silverstone circuit on Friday. Running in wet conditions, the car—sporting a black livery—provided the world's first auditory experience of a Ferrari power unit under the sport's new 2026 regulations.

Why it matters:

This initial run is a critical validation step for the American outfit ahead of the official pre-season test in Barcelona. Given the massive scale of the regulatory overhaul for 2026, ensuring that all mechanical and electrical systems function correctly immediately is paramount. Furthermore, the debut of the Ferrari engine offers the first real-world insight into the competitive landscape regarding power unit performance and acoustics.

The details:

• Track Debut: The shakedown took place at the home of the British Grand Prix, serving as a vital systems check to verify basic functionality.
• Power Unit Sound: This was the first time a Ferrari engine has been heard since the introduction of the new rules, offering an early acoustic preview of what the 2026 grid will sound like.
• Driver Identity: While Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez are linked to the team, the specific driver behind the wheel for this session remains unconfirmed.
• Competition Context: Cadillac joins Audi as the only other manufacturer to have completed a shakedown, with the German manufacturer running at Barcelona last week.
• Visuals: The team shared a short clip of the car, distinct from the recent liveries unveiled by Red Bull and Racing Bulls in Detroit.

What's next:

The focus now shifts to the official pre-season testing in Barcelona. Cadillac will aim to accumulate significant mileage there, ensuring reliability and performance are ready for the competitive debut of the 2026 season.