The Big Picture
Cadillac has officially announced its 2026 Formula 1 driver lineup, confirming Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez as its inaugural pairing.
Why it matters
This experienced duo will lead Cadillac's historic F1 debut under entirely new regulations, aiming to establish immediate credibility for the American giant. The announcement comes amid ongoing discussions about driver performance and team strategies.
The Details
- Cadillac's Inaugural Lineup: Cadillac confirmed the long-rumored pairing on Tuesday. Both Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez will return to the F1 grid after a year off from their current teams.
- Expert Criticism: Former team manager Peter Windsor criticized Cadillac's choice, calling it a "really boring choice." He questioned the team's rationale, suggesting they might be solely focused on hiring Grand Prix winners for credibility.
- Pérez on Red Bull Exit: Sergio Pérez, meanwhile, maintains he had "nothing to prove" during his time at Red Bull Racing. He pointed to the underwhelming performances of his successors, Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda, as evidence that the gap to Max Verstappen was not solely his issue.
- Pérez's contract was bought out to make way for Liam Lawson, who was later replaced by Yuki Tsunoda. Both drivers, according to Pérez, performed worse than he did in his final season with the Austrian team.
What's next
Cadillac is set to make its F1 debut in 2026, coinciding with major regulation changes and radically different car designs. Bottas and Pérez will be crucial in navigating these challenges, aiming to prove their worth and establish Cadillac as a competitive force.