Formula 1 is set for a thrilling shake-up in 2026 as veteran racers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez prepare to lead Cadillac into its inaugural F1 season. After a period away from the grid, both drivers are eager to leverage their extensive experience to propel the American team to success.
Bottas & Perez: A Powerhouse Partnership
The announcement of Bottas and Perez joining Cadillac sent ripples through the F1 community. The pair, boasting a combined 527 Grands Prix, 106 podiums, and 16 Grand Prix victories, brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to the nascent team. Their mission? To transform Cadillac from a newcomer into a formidable competitor.
Perez, who took time off to spend with his family, and Bottas, who remained active as a Mercedes reserve driver, are fully aware of the challenges ahead. Cadillac is starting from scratch, competing against ten established teams with years of F1 experience. However, this doesn't deter them. Instead, they view it as an opportunity to build something special.
Perez's Renewed Passion
For Perez, the move to Cadillac represents a chance to rediscover his love for racing. After a challenging final year with Red Bull, the Mexican driver seeks to reignite his passion within a supportive environment. He believes that working with an ambitious team and having significant resources from the ground up will help him achieve this goal.
"My main target is to enjoy being back," said Perez. "I had a very difficult year, especially my final year with Red Bull. This is a sport I love, and I want to get back to enjoyment. This project just brings that." Cadillac's choice of drivers reflects a strategic decision to prioritize experience and stability.
Experience Matters
Cadillac’s selection of Bottas and Pérez highlights the importance of experience in the high-stakes world of Formula 1. While some might have expected the team to sign an American driver, the decision to go with seasoned veterans underscores their commitment to building a strong foundation.
The numbers speak for themselves. Compared to other new constructor entries in the past 25 years, Bottas and Pérez bring an unparalleled level of Grand Prix experience. This suggests that Cadillac is aiming for a steady, reliable approach rather than taking a gamble on unproven talent.