Perez and Bottas to race for Cadillac in 2026

Both Perez and Bottas are making a comeback to the top flight, the Mexican after being fired by Red Bull Racing at the end of the 2024 F1 season, while the Finn last raced actively in 2024 when he was with Sauber before taking on a reserve role with Mercedes.

The announcement of the driver pairing is another step taken by Cadillac as they ramp up their preparations for their maiden F1 season, in which they will be powered by Ferrari engines before they start producing their own power units in 2028.

Cadillac have taken their time before making their decision on their 2026 driver lineup with many names linked to them over the past months but have apparently opted for experience with Perez and Bottas who boast a combined 527 grands prix and 16 wins.

“Signing two very experienced racers like Bottas and Checo is a bold signal of intent," Cadillac Formula 1 Team boss Graeme Lowdon said in a team statement.

"They’ve seen it all and they know what it takes to succeed in Formula 1. But more importantly, they understand what it means to help build a team.

"Their leadership, feedback, race-hardened instincts and of course their speed will be invaluable as we bring this team to life. A big thank you to the team at Mercedes for their co-operation and understanding," he added.

Perez commented: "Joining the Cadillac Formula 1 Team is an incredibly exciting new chapter in my career. From our first conversations, I could sense the passion and determination behind this project.

"It's an honor to be part of building a team that can develop together so that, in time, we will fight at the very front. Cadillac is a legendary name in American motorsport, and to help bring such a fantastic company to Formula 1 is a huge responsibility, one I’m confident of taking on.

"I’m proud to be part of such an ambitious and meaningful project from the very beginning. I’m really pleased to be part of such a dynamic line-up, and together I believe we can help shape this team into a real contender, the team of the Americas.

"We’re counting on support from across the continent – and we want to make everyone proud," the Mexican concluded.

As for Bottas, he added: "From the moment I began speaking with the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, I felt something different – something ambitious but also grounded. This isn’t just a racing project; it’s a long-term vision.

"It's not every day that you get a chance to be part of something being built from the ground up and helping shape it into something that truly belongs on the F1 grid.

“I’ve had the honor of working with some of the best teams in the world, and I can already see the same professionalism and hunger here.

"This is an iconic brand with a big legacy in American motorsport, and to be a part of the story as it enters the world stage of F1 is incredibly special for me.

"I’m looking forward to representing the American spirit of racing on the greatest circuits in the world. I’d also like to thank Mercedes for their unwavering support and sportsmanship in facilitating such an exciting step," Bottas concluded.

CEO of the Cadillac Formula 1 Team and TWG Motorsports, a division of TWG Global, Dan Towriss said: "Bottas and Checo bring the perfect balance of talent, maturity, and drive.

"They’re not just accomplished racers, they’re builders, collaborators, and professionals who will help define what the Cadillac Formula 1 Team stands for.

"This moment marks more than just a line-up announcement. It’s the beginning of a bold new chapter in American motorsport," Towriss concluded.

GM President Mark Reuss added: "Our new drivers are a welcome addition to the Cadillac racing family – each brings a depth of experience, and an unwavering passion to win.

"Together, we’re building the foundation for American motorsports that will be an extraordinary legacy for Cadillac, GM and the sport.”