Who's on Cadillac's list for arrival in 2026?
Opportunities to secure a seat in Formula 1 are rare, but the likelihood of landing one has increased slightly for 2026, thanks to Cadillac's entry into the premier class. This will provide two extra seats next year.
As Cadillac prepares for its entry into Formula 1 in 2026, several drivers are linked to a potential seat within the team.
Although no official signature has been confirmed, here are the names that have appeared on their shortlist:
Colton Herta
IndyCar star Colton Herta has been linked to the team due to his American identity. However, his eligibility for a Super License is a key factor;he currently has 32 points and needs 40, which would require a top-four finish in the 2025 IndyCar championship or additional points during Free Practice sessions.
Sergio Perez
The Mexican is widely regarded as a leading candidate, bringing significant F1 experience, race victories, and commercial support. His current contract with Red Bull, ending in late 2024, makes him available.
Read also: Sergio Pérez and Colton Herta: towards a future duo at Cadillac for the 2026 season?
Valtteri Bottas
Another experienced F1 race winner, Valtteri Bottas is currently a reserve driver for Mercedes. He is eager to secure a full-time seat and is said to have had informal talks with Cadillac. He stated in the press that he hopes for a return to F1 and will seize opportunities.
Mick Schumacher
After two seasons with Haas, Mick Schumacher is actively seeking his return to F1 and is currently participating in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) with Alpine. Graeme Lowdon, the team principal of Cadillac, has publicly acknowledged Mick Schumacher as a serious option.
Zhou Guanyu
Former Sauber driver, Zhou Guanyu is now a reserve driver for Ferrari. He is also being considered, potentially due to strong sponsorships and a large support base in China.
Jak Crawford
American F2 driver and Aston Martin junior driver, Jak Crawford is another potential American option whose Super License points are being monitored.
Felipe Drugovich
The 2022 F2 World Champion and current Aston Martin reserve driver, Felipe Drugovich, has been mentioned as a candidate with F1 experience, although limited.
Cadillac stated that they will select drivers based on merit and that they are looking for a combination of experience and long-term potential. They are opening discussions with a fairly large number of potential drivers, with the aim of confirming their first signing around the summer break.
Read also:Cadillac found its first sponsor
