In a major development for the sport’s evolving landscape, two of Formula 1’s most recognisable drivers will return to the grid in 2026 after being confirmed as the inaugural race line up for the new Cadillac Formula 1 team. The American squad, backed by General Motors and poised to become the 11th team on the grid, has signed Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas on competitive multi-year deals, signalling its ambition to compete from day one of its debut campaign.

The return to full time competition marks a significant turnaround for both drivers, who lost their respective seats at the end of the 2024 season. Pérez, a six-time Grand Prix winner and former teammate to multiple champions, spent 2025 away from a full race seat following a mutual departure from Red Bull Racing. The Mexican racer described his new role with Cadillac as “an incredibly exciting new chapter,” stressing his pride in being part of an ambitious project from its inception.

Bottas, whose career includes 10 Grand Prix victories and numerous podium finishes during a successful stint with Mercedes, returned to the paddock in 2025 as a reserve driver after parting ways with Alfa Romeo/Sauber at the end of 2024. The 35-year-old Finn has since been preparing for his comeback, completing initial car shakedowns and participating in team operations as Cadillac finalises its 2026 campaign build-up.

The choice of two experienced race winners is a clear indicator of Cadillac’s strategy to prioritise seasoned leadership as it navigates the challenges of stepping into the world’s premier motorsport championship. Team principal Graeme Lowdon and CEO Dan Towriss have emphasised that Pérez and Bottas bring a balance of technical insight, racecraft and development feedback that will be invaluable for a start up team with ambitious long term goals.

The Cadillac Formula 1 team’s debut will take place at the 2026 Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, where the outfit aims to showcase its progress under new technical regulations and expanded team structures. While expectations remain cautious given the complexities of building a competitive F1 car, early testing and shakedown sessions have garnered positive feedback, with both drivers expressing confidence in Cadillac’s direction and potential.

For Formula 1 fans, the return of Pérez and Bottas adds a compelling blend of experience and narrative intrigue to an already dynamic grid, reinforcing the sport’s ongoing transformation as it enters a new era of competition.

Veteran Stars Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas Set for F1 Return With Cadillac in 2026

Verstappen Dominates at Baku as Piastri Crashes and Norris Misses Big Opportunity

Norris Survives Late Piastri Charge in Tense Hungarian Grand Prix