Cadillac Confirms Bottas for 2026 F1 Return with Bold New Team Entry

Cadillac will join Formula 1 in 2026 with a powerful driver lineup. Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez have been confirmed as the faces of the American brand’s debut team. The announcement comes after both drivers were sidelined from the 2025 grid, setting up a dramatic return.

The team will be the 11th on the grid for the 2026 F1 season. Cadillac’s entry marks a historic moment, as the brand returns to the sport after more than seven decades. Their previous involvement was limited to engine supply in the early 1950s.

Cadillac F1 Bottas Lineup Signals Big Comeback

Cadillac chose Bottas and Perez for their experience. Both drivers bring more than 500 Grand Prix starts combined. Bottas, currently a reserve driver with Mercedes, is looking to restart his F1 journey. He brings 10 race wins and a decade of racing experience.

Sergio Perez, recently dropped by Red Bull Racing, is back after finishing the 2024 season as a key part of their championship-winning team. He last raced alongside Max Verstappen in Abu Dhabi, leaving fans surprised by his exit despite the team’s success.

Cadillac’s team will be based in the U.S., targeting both performance and market expansion. The team aims to boost American interest in F1, a key growth goal for the sport.

According to officials, this driver duo represents Cadillac’s serious commitment. It’s not just a branding move. They’re here to compete.

The team’s arrival was confirmed as part of the 2026 season changes. Cadillac will be the only new team on the grid that year. However, several existing teams will undergo changes.

What Else Is Changing in F1 for 2026?

Beyond Cadillac, other major changes will shape the 2026 F1 season.

• Audi will rebrand Sauber into the Revolut Audi F1 Team.

• Red Bull will partner with Ford as its engine supplier.

• Honda will return, teaming up with Aston Martin.

• Renault will exit as an engine provider for the first time in decades.

The race calendar will also shift. A new street circuit in Madrid will debut in 2026. It replaces the classic Imola Grand Prix after contract talks failed. Barcelona will remain on the calendar.

The sport is evolving to attract a younger, global audience. Cadillac’s debut, along with new circuits and engine partnerships, supports that mission.

F1 has confirmed 11 teams for 2026. With new drivers, a new car formula, and Cadillac on board, the season is set to reshape the sport.

Bottas will race for Cadillac F1 in 2026, and the move has excited fans around the world. The blend of experience and innovation promises a strong entry for the American team.

For your information:

Q1: Who will drive for Cadillac in F1 2026?
Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez have been confirmed as Cadillac’s drivers for the 2026 Formula 1 season.

Q2: Is Cadillac a new team in Formula 1?
Yes. Cadillac will be the only new team to join the F1 grid in 2026, becoming the sport’s 11th team.

Q3: Why did Bottas join Cadillac?
Bottas was seeking a full-time seat after serving as a reserve driver at Mercedes. Cadillac offered a new challenge and fresh opportunity.

Q4: What changes are coming to F1 in 2026?
New teams, engine suppliers, and a street circuit in Madrid are among the major changes planned for the 2026 season.

Q5: Is Imola on the 2026 calendar?
No. The Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Imola will not return in 2026, making way for the new Madrid street race.