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Cadillac Set to Name Pérez and Bottas for 2026 F1 Debut, Reports Say

The newcomer plans to start with Ferrari power as GM develops its own engine, prioritizing veteran feedback for the 2026 rules reset.

Sergio Perez of Mexico and Oracle Red Bull Racing walks in the paddock during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi at Yas Marina Circuit on December 7, 2024 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Valtteri Bottas of Finland and Mercedes poses with a thumbs up in the pit lane during the F1 Grand Prix of Belgium at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps on July 27, 2025 in Spa, Belgium.
Sergio Perez of Mexico and Oracle Red Bull Racing prepares to drive in the garage prior to the Sprint ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Qatar at Lusail International Circuit on November 30, 2024 in Lusail City, Qatar.
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Overview

  • Multiple outlets report Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas have agreed to drive for Cadillac in 2026, with an announcement expected around the Dutch Grand Prix.
  • The FIA confirmed Bottas must serve a five-place grid drop from Abu Dhabi 2024 at his next Grand Prix start despite updated regulations for 2026.
  • Alpine made a late approach to sign one or both drivers as a replacement option, but both Pérez and Bottas declined, according to ESPN-based reports.
  • Cadillac will run as a Ferrari customer in its first season, with General Motors targeting an in-house power unit later in the decade, reported as 2029.
  • Team principal Graeme Lowdon has urged conservative expectations for year one, with preparation steps including Testing of Previous Cars in an older Ferrari chassis reported for 2025.