Cadillac is revving up for its highly anticipated debut in the 2026 Formula 1 season, marking the arrival of the 11th team on the grid. With the Australian Grand Prix on March 8, 2026, as the starting point, the team is focused on finalizing its car development. However, the question on everyone’s mind is: Who will be behind the wheel?

The Current Landscape

Cadillac’s team boss, Graeme Lowdon, has emphasized that driver selection is not the immediate priority. The team is concentrating on building a competitive car, but as the 2026 season approaches, the focus will inevitably shift to the driver lineup. With F1’s ‘silly season’ in full swing, speculation is rife about who will secure the coveted seats.

The Frontrunners

Two names stand out as the most likely candidates: Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas.

• Sergio Pérez: After his departure from Red Bull, Pérez has been a free agent. Despite a challenging 2023 and 2024 season, his experience and popularity, especially among Latin American fans, make him a strong contender. Cadillac reportedly reached out to Pérez immediately after his Red Bull exit, and he remains a top candidate.

• Valtteri Bottas: The former Mercedes driver has been teasing fans with social media posts hinting at a potential move to Cadillac. Bottas brings championship-winning experience and a proven track record, making him a valuable asset for a new team.

Other Potential Candidates

While Pérez and Bottas are the frontrunners, other drivers are also in the mix:

• Zhou Guanyu: The first Chinese F1 driver, Zhou, has marketability in Asia and a connection to Cadillac’s team boss, Graeme Lowdon.

• Yuki Tsunoda: With his Red Bull future uncertain, Tsunoda could see Cadillac as an opportunity to escape the pressure of being Max Verstappen’s teammate.

American Dreams

Cadillac has expressed a desire to have an American driver in its lineup. Colton Herta has been a long-standing candidate, but securing the necessary super license points remains a hurdle. Another option is Jak Crawford, a rising star in Formula 2 with American roots.

The Long Shot: Daniel Ricciardo

While Daniel Ricciardo has been out of the F1 spotlight, his popularity and experience make him a wildcard. However, Ricciardo has indicated he’s not interested in returning to F1, focusing instead on his business ventures.

Conclusion

As Cadillac prepares for its 2026 F1 debut, the driver lineup remains a hot topic. Whether it’s seasoned veterans like Pérez and Bottas or emerging talents like Zhou and Tsunoda, the team has a range of options to consider. The coming months will be crucial in shaping Cadillac’s future in Formula 1.