As Cadillac prepares to enter Formula 1 in 2026, speculation surrounds the potential driver lineup for the American team’s debut season. With a commitment to selecting drivers based on merit, Cadillac is exploring various options, including experienced F1 veterans and promising American talents.
Mario Andretti’s Perspective
Mario Andretti, 1978 F1 World Champion and a key figure in the Cadillac F1 project, has acknowledged the challenges in assembling a competitive driver lineup. He noted that the pool of available drivers is “somewhat limited,” emphasizing the importance of pairing experience with potential. Andretti has mentioned Sergio Perez as a candidate, stating that Perez “could be an option” for the team. Additionally, Andretti has expressed interest in Colton Herta, suggesting that the team plans to pair an experienced driver with a younger American talent, with Herta being a likely choice.
Guenther Steiner’s Recommendations
Former Haas F1 team principal Guenther Steiner has offered his insights, advocating for a driver lineup comprising seasoned professionals. Steiner recommends Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, highlighting their extensive experience and ability to provide valuable feedback for a new team’s development. He believes that such a pairing would offer stability and accelerate the team’s learning curve in its inaugural season.
Cadillac’s Approach to Driver Selection
Cadillac F1 team principal Graeme Lowdon has emphasized that driver selection will be based on merit, without rushing the decision-making process. While acknowledging the appeal of having an American driver, Lowdon insists that the primary criterion will be the driver’s ability to contribute to the team’s success. He stated, “We’re going to hire drivers based on merit. But as such, we see no reason why we won’t have American drivers in time.”
Potential Candidates
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Sergio Perez: The experienced Mexican driver is considered a strong candidate due to his extensive F1 background and recent performances.
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Valtteri Bottas: With a solid track record and technical feedback skills, Bottas is seen as a valuable asset for a new team’s development phase.
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Colton Herta: The American IndyCar driver is a promising talent, though his eligibility depends on obtaining the necessary FIA Super License points.
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Mick Schumacher: Having previously raced for Haas F1, Schumacher is familiar with the F1 environment and could be a viable option for Cadillac.
As Cadillac’s F1 debut approaches, assembling a balanced and competitive driver lineup remains a priority. The team’s leadership is carefully considering various options to ensure a successful entry into the sport, balancing experience with emerging talent. The final decision will reflect Cadillac’s commitment to performance and its ambition to make a significant impact in Formula 1.
