Cadillac is entering Formula 1 in 2026 as the 11th team, with drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, an engine supply from Ferrari, and plans to develop their own power unit by 2029, marking a significant US automotive presence in F1.
The article reviews how recent new F1 teams have approached their driver line-ups, highlighting that experienced drivers like Bottas and Perez are now leading Cadillac's entry, while past teams have varied from inexperienced rookies to seasoned veterans, with mixed results in their debut seasons.
Cadillac chose Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez for their 2026 F1 team, citing their experience and commercial appeal, while passing on American drivers like Jak Crawford due to lack of experience and development concerns. The decision reflects a focus on proven talent over potential American talent, despite questions about the absence of U.S. drivers in the lineup.
Cadillac announced their driver lineup for the 2026 F1 season, signing experienced drivers Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas to lead their new team, backed by General Motors, marking their entry into Formula 1.
Cadillac spoke with Red Bull and Sergio Perez to address concerns about his recent F1 performance before signing him, ultimately deciding he was the right fit due to his experience, motivation, and the insights gained from thorough discussions with his former teams and colleagues.
Cadillac has announced Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez as its drivers for the 2026 F1 season, emphasizing experience over youth to build a competitive team, with both drivers bringing significant F1 experience and leadership to the new team.
Sergio Pérez discusses his departure from Red Bull, expressing that he believes the team regrets the decision and citing internal issues and pressure as reasons for the team's decline. He confirms his desire to return to Formula 1 if the right opportunity arises and is considering future team options, aiming to rebuild his career similar to his time at Force India.
Sergio Perez criticizes Red Bull for not protecting him during the 2024 F1 season, citing a toxic environment and lack of support that contributed to his departure from the team, which he believes regrets its decision now.
Sergio Perez's future at Red Bull Racing appears uncertain as the team considers Liam Lawson as a potential partner for Max Verstappen in 2025. Despite Perez's insistence on fulfilling his contract through next year, Red Bull sees Lawson as a less problematic choice, capable of playing a supportive role to Verstappen. While Perez faces pressure due to underperformance, Lawson's consistent performance makes him a favorable option for the team.
Red Bull Racing is expected to part ways with Sergio Perez after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, as the Mexican driver has struggled to perform this season, finishing only eighth in the drivers' standings. Team principal Christian Horner acknowledged Perez's contributions over the years but noted the challenges faced this season. Red Bull's shareholders will meet after the race to finalize their driver lineup for 2025, with Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda as potential replacements. The decision will align with Red Bull's philosophy of promoting drivers from within their program.
Red Bull Racing is expected to part ways with Sergio Perez after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with discussions set to finalize the team's driver lineup for 2025. Despite Perez's contributions, including five Grand Prix wins, his performance this season has been underwhelming, leading to speculation about his future. Red Bull is considering promoting a driver from its own program, with Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda as potential candidates. The decision will be made in a meeting with Red Bull's shareholders following the season finale.
Sergio Pérez faces uncertainty about his future with Red Bull Racing as he heads into the final race of the Formula 1 season in Abu Dhabi. Despite a challenging year and being outperformed by teammate Max Verstappen, Pérez remains confident about his position, citing team support and a contract extension for 2025. However, his recent poor performances have fueled speculation about a potential exit, with Red Bull considering replacements from its junior team, including Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson. A decision on Pérez's future is expected after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Red Bull Racing is likely to replace Sergio Perez after the Abu Dhabi F1 finale, with Liam Lawson expected to partner Max Verstappen in 2025. Despite Perez's contract and previous announcements of his continuation, his position has been uncertain since Red Bull considered dropping him during the summer break. Perez's performance has been inconsistent, and Red Bull is exploring options for his exit, potentially avoiding a costly pay-off. Lawson's recent performances have impressed Red Bull, making him a strong candidate for the seat, while Isack Hadjar is likely to replace Lawson in the junior team.
As the Formula 1 season approaches its penultimate race at the Qatar Grand Prix, the constructors' championship remains fiercely contested among McLaren, Ferrari, and Red Bull, with McLaren having a chance to clinch the title this weekend. Sergio Perez faces pressure to secure his Red Bull seat amid rumors of potential replacements. Additionally, Formula 1 has announced an agreement with General Motors to join the championship in 2026. Meanwhile, the battle for sixth place in the constructors' standings and the F1 Academy and Formula 2 titles are also heating up.
Valtteri Bottas, currently with Sauber, has ruled out a move to Red Bull Racing despite Sergio Perez's struggles, as he believes Red Bull is not interested in him. With Sauber signing new drivers for 2025, Bottas is likely to become a reserve driver for Mercedes, a team he previously raced for. Bottas is open to future opportunities, including a potential role with Cadillac's F1 project in 2026.