Pagenaud discovers fresh motivation in his position with Cadillac F1.

      "Impacts led to consequences."

      Simon Pagenaud has stated that Cadillac's Formula 1 project has played a crucial role in rebuilding his life and career following the 2023 crash that resulted in lasting neurological issues. The ex-IndyCar champion and 2019 Indianapolis 500 victor has not participated in a race since experiencing a brake failure and a series of violent rolls at Mid-Ohio. Now, three years later, he continues to face significant vertigo, which varies with his fatigue, as reported by Ouest-France newspaper. "There were consequences due to the impacts, especially from the rapid rotation of the vehicle, which still leads to considerable dizziness for me today," Pagenaud noted. He initially found it difficult to use Cadillac’s simulator. "The first day on the simulator was challenging," he recalled. "I experienced a lot of flashes in my eyes, severe migraines, motion sickness, nausea, and memory issues. However, over time, things became slightly clearer." Pagenaud mentioned that losing his racing career had profoundly impacted his sense of identity. "I felt invincible before. But when all that disappeared, I felt very useless, very disoriented." Cadillac has now entrusted the 42-year-old with an important position in the development of its Formula 1 car. "I’m currently driving the simulator, and we’ll continue advancing the development of Cadillac's Formula 1 vehicle." "My expertise has always revolved around the technical aspects, understanding the technology, and management in a way." "Being involved in all this, watching it evolve, and having the opportunity to work on every detail of the race car to optimize it has made me incredibly grateful."