“We definitely select on merit”: With 2026 entry confirmed, Cadillac F1 turns focus to assembling a competitive driver duo

With its official entry into Formula 1 for the 2026 season, Cadillac F1 has now stepped into the competitive driver market, opening the door for several high-profile names who are currently without a team. As new chassis and engine regulations reshape the sport, the American outfit will need two drivers capable of delivering strong performances in its debut campaign.

Team principal Graeme Lowdon has emphasized that Cadillac F1 will prioritize merit in its driver selection process. “We definitely select on merit,” he stated while addressing media, adding, “Formula 1 is not a playground, this is the pinnacle of world motor sports. So for sure, we need to select drivers on merit.” With numerous skilled drivers available, the team now has the opportunity to engage in serious negotiations.

Lowdon acknowledged that until Cadillac’s entry was officially confirmed, meaningful conversations with potential candidates had not been possible. However, with that hurdle now cleared, discussions are well underway. “Luckily for us, there are a lot of good drivers out there,” he said, confirming that the team is now evaluating options carefully.
Among the names being considered, experienced F1 drivers like Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez stand out. Bottas, a 10-time Grand Prix winner, will be serving as Mercedes’ reserve driver in 2025 after losing his seat at Sauber, while Perez, a seasoned competitor, recently departed Red Bull. Additionally, IndyCar’s Colton Herta has emerged as a potential candidate, as Cadillac F1 explores the idea of recruiting American talent to align with its U.S.-based identity.
Lowdon acknowledged the wealth of talent available, stating, “Do we see experienced, capable drivers, very talented drivers, who currently aren’t on the grid? Yes, we do.” While the timeline for driver negotiations is slightly out of sync due to Cadillac’s late entry, the team is making up for lost time. “My phone has certainly been busy, that’s for sure,” he added, signaling the urgency of securing a strong lineup.

Another driver worth noting is Zhou Guanyu, who lost his Alfa Romeo seat at the end of the 2024 season. Given that Lowdon is part of Ferrari’s reserve driver management team, Zhou’s connection could make him an appealing option for Cadillac F1’s inaugural campaign.
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With a clean slate and an open driver market, Cadillac F1 has the opportunity to shape its future by selecting a pair of skilled and competitive racers. Whether the team opts for experienced veterans or brings fresh talent into the sport, its debut in 2026 will be closely watched. As Lowdon and his team work behind the scenes to finalize their choices, the F1 world eagerly anticipates which drivers will take the wheel for Cadillac’s first chapter in motorsport’s pinnacle series.