Cadillac is making headlines as it locks in its first Formula 1 driver ahead of the team’s much-anticipated 2026 debut, when the grid will expand to 22 cars. Backed by General Motors, Cadillac aims to evolve into a full works team by 2029 with its own power unit, making it an appealing destination for talent across the racing world.
The project is headed by Graeme Lowdon, formerly of Virgin/Marussia, and strengthened by the addition of F1 veterans Nick Chester and Pat Symonds. As momentum builds, the team has now reportedly secured Sergio Perez as its first race driver for the inaugural season.
According to German outlet Bild, Perez’s deal with Cadillac has been “finalised for months.” After parting ways with Red Bull at the end of last year, despite having a contract through 2025, Perez brings invaluable experience with 285 Grand Prix starts — ranking eighth on the all-time list. His record includes six race victories and 39 podium finishes, with ten of those podiums earned while driving for midfield teams like Sauber and Force India/Racing Point.
Cadillac’s signing of Perez not only boosts their credibility but also reshapes the driver market. Fans are already eagerly speculating on who will take the team’s second seat. While Cadillac’s top target is reportedly IndyCar’s Colton Herta, who impressed in a 2022 McLaren F1 test, many fans are pushing for an all-Mexican pairing by adding Pato O’Ward, another McLaren-affiliated IndyCar star, alongside Perez.
The official announcement is expected soon, possibly during the Miami Grand Prix weekend, where the team has been hinting at revealing its big news.
