With Cadillac officially stepping onto the Formula 1 grid in 2026, the buzz around who might drive for the team has hit a fever pitch, especially with names like Sergio Perez circulating in the rumor mill. So, who exactly is on Cadillac’s radar, and what’s the real story behind these speculations? Team principal Graeme Lowdon sheds some light on the situation.
Cadillac, which emerged from Andretti Global following a series of negotiations, only confirmed its place in the F1 2026 lineup recently. This late entry has meant a delayed start in the fiercely competitive driver market, putting the team in a challenging position. According to team principal Graeme Lowdon, the lack of a confirmed entry previously prevented them from actively participating in the last round of driver negotiations. Although they could talk to drivers, the absence of a guaranteed slot made it difficult to secure firm commitments.
As a result, Cadillac finds itself out of sync with other F1 teams that have already secured their lineups extending into the 2026 season. Despite this, Lowdon is optimistic, highlighting the abundance of talented drivers eager to either join or rejoin the F1 circuit. ‘We could meet with drivers and talk to them, but without the entry confirmation, you can’t really claim that marketplace,’ Lowdon explained to Speed City Broadcasting.
The whispers around Sergio Perez in particular have gathered steam, suggesting he’s in ‘advanced talks’ with the American team. However, Lowdon is quick to tone down the excitement, clarifying that discussions are still in their infancy with all potential drivers, estimating conversations with seven or eight individuals. While he refrains from naming names, he hints that any driver with recent F1 experience is likely on their list.
The talks are described as preliminary, with Cadillac essentially gauging interest and motivation among prospects. While Lowdon acknowledges the late start as a disadvantage, he also points out the ‘lucky position’ they are in, with options ranging from seasoned champions to promising newcomers from the junior categories. The team is keen on a merit-based selection, aiming to assemble a competitive lineup capable of bringing the new team to the forefront.
In what could be seen as a silver lining, the delayed process allows Cadillac to select from a pool of drivers not just with ‘turn up and drive’ skills but also those who have been part of winning teams. This variety provides a strategic advantage, offering potential for a balanced team composition. Lowdon expresses confidence in the capability of the drivers they are in early talks with, emphasizing their potential to lead a professional team with prowess.
While Cadillac’s F1 journey is just beginning, the team’s methodical approach to driver selection suggests a promising debut. Whether names like Sergio Perez will indeed grace their roster remains to be seen, but the groundwork is being laid for a strong entrance onto the Formula 1 stage. As the countdown to 2026 continues, fans and critics alike eagerly await the team’s next moves in this high-stakes arena.
