Cadillac veterans divide Dutch Formula 1 experts.

      Cadillac's choice to base its new Formula 1 project on seasoned drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez has created a rift between former Dutch racers Renger van der Zande and Jan Lammers.

      Perez has shown a robust performance since his return and rates his season nearly a perfect 10, although he has raised concerns about the pace of Cadillac’s development. Meanwhile, Bottas experienced the team’s latest severe brake failure in Hungary, necessitating a collision with a barrier to halt the car. "These new front ducts were supposed to tackle the issue and prevent such occurrences, yet it's apparent that sufficient airflow to the brakes is still lacking," he stated. "I had no option but to crash into the wall to stop the car."

      Van der Zande believes incidents like this demonstrate that Cadillac still requires experienced drivers. "You need a Bottas who doesn’t start complaining on the radio when the brakes fail but instead knows how to bring the car to a stop," he remarked to Ziggo Sport. "He handles it, goes home, and prepares for the next race." He argues that a younger driver like Colton Herta should only be brought in once Cadillac becomes competitive. "Once the car shows speed, then you can consider putting a Colton Herta or someone prepared behind the wheel," he added.

      Conversely, former Formula 1 driver Lammers strongly disagrees, claiming that Bottas and Perez are too established to offer the drive needed for a new team. "They are simply too seasoned, and I no longer see the ambition in them," he said. "For them, it’s just a way to supplement their pensions, which is quite disrespectful. You need individuals who are eager enough to take the phone out of your hands at home and execute what you've been practicing in a flash."