Cadillac hits the track for first F1 shakedown at Silverstone

The General Motors-backed Cadillac team completed its maiden shakedown at a damp Silverstone, marking the first on-track appearance of Formula 1's 11th team. Running under filming day regulations, the car—powered by a Ferrari engine—also served as the debut for the Italian manufacturer's new 2026 power unit amidst the sport's revised regulations.

Why it matters:

This shakedown signifies the culmination of General Motors' long-awaited entry into Formula 1 and the expansion of the grid for the first time since 2016. With the 2026 regulations resetting the competitive order, Cadillac's partnership with Ferrari for power units provides a strong foundation to challenge the established frontrunners immediately. The early track time is vital for validating the integration of the new engine and chassis before the intense pre-season testing schedule begins.

The details:

• Veteran Line-up: The team has opted for experience over youth, fielding race winners Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez. Both drivers return to the grid after spending the 2025 season on the sidelines, bringing a wealth of knowledge crucial for developing a brand-new team. Reserve driver Zhou Guanyu was also involved in the garage activities.
• Ferrari Power Unit: The Silverstone run was a double milestone, effectively acting as the first track test for Ferrari's 2026-spec engine. This power unit is central to Cadillac's competitive hopes under the new rules.
• Livery and Design: The car featured a "bare carbon" testing livery, displaying the Cadillac logo on the rear engine cover and the names of founding members inscribed across the chassis. The team's definitive race livery will be unveiled globally during the Super Bowl on February 8.
• Testing Schedule: Cadillac is the second new entrant to hit the track, following Audi's shakedown in Barcelona last week. The team now heads to the first official pre-season test in Barcelona from January 26-30.

What's next:

Following the shakedown, the focus shifts to the robust pre-season testing calendar.

• After the closed-doors Barcelona test, the team will participate in two further tests in Bahrain (February 11-13 and 18-20) to fine-tune the car for race conditions.
• The 2026 season kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 8, where Cadillac will look to make a competitive debut.