Cadillac states that there will be considerable discussions regarding F1 drivers in the near future.

      "My phone is certainly busy."

      By GMM

      11 March 2025 - 09:06

      A number of candidates have surfaced for the two race seats with Formula 1's new team Cadillac in 2026. Colton Herta, currently competing for Andretti in Indycar, is the prominent contender for at least one seat, aligning with the strong interest in having an American driver. However, the challenge lies in his insufficient points to qualify for an FIA super license. "If that continues to be the case, it will clearly hinder him," stated Cadillac team boss Graeme Lowdon, who previously served as team principal for the now-defunct Virgin team.

      On the other hand, Logan Sargeant, an American who possesses the required F1 credentials, has not only lost his seat at Williams last year but has also withdrawn from a sports car role he had lined up for 2025. “As far as I’m aware," Lowdon mentioned, "Logan is no longer engaged in motorsport. He’s American, but we haven’t had any discussions with him.”

      Sergio Perez may not be American, but he is Latin American and would bring substantial support from his Mexican sponsors and connections. The former Red Bull driver's father, Antonio Perez Garibay, stated on Mexican television on Monday, "Sergio is preparing something significant for the Mexican fans - they will be very pleased and proud, and I hope it lasts many years. Sergio is eager to return and become a champion, which is the only thing missing."

      Valtteri Bottas is also looking for a race seat, along with his 2024 Sauber teammate Guanyu Zhou. Zhou, a Chinese driver, benefits from existing ties with Cadillac’s 2026 engine partner Ferrari, as well as with Lowdon, who is his manager. “There is no bias in any direction, whether for him or any other driver,” insisted the team’s British boss. “We are here to do a job, and we will select drivers based on merit. There are some excellent candidates available, including Zhou.”

      Lowdon anticipates discussions with “a lot” of “very talented” drivers who already have F1 experience but are not currently racing. “My phone is certainly busy,” he smiled. “There are easily half a dozen candidates, if not more, with exceptional qualifications for Formula 1 or to return.”

      Daniel Ricciardo recently stated that he is “done” with F1, while Mick Schumacher remains eager to make his comeback to the grid. “It’s a bit too early to provide further details as we are just starting to have meaningful discussions,” commented Lowdon.

      Cadillac F1 Team - General Motors