Cadillac: Sergio Perez Returns to F1 with 'Exactly the Right Attitude'
Sergio Perez has impressed Cadillac's management during his recent test with the new F1 team, showing a "positive attitude" and strong physical readiness after a year out of the cockpit. This test at Imola, using a loaned Ferrari, was crucial for Cadillac's crew to practice race procedures. With Valtteri Bottas also joining post-2025, Cadillac is building an experienced driver lineup for their 2026 debut, signaling their serious intent in Formula 1.
Sergio Perez's recent test with Cadillac, F1's newest team for 2026, has left a strong impression on the team's leadership, with Graeme Lowdon praising the Mexican veteran's "exactly the right attitude" as he prepares to re-enter Formula 1.
Why it matters:
After a year away from an F1 cockpit, Perez's renewed vigor and the valuable experience he brings are crucial for Cadillac as they gear up for their 2026 debut. His enthusiasm and physical preparedness, combined with Valtteri Bottas's arrival post-2025, signal Cadillac's intent to build a competitive foundation with experienced drivers, potentially shaking up the grid.
The Details:
- Imola Test: Two weeks ago, Perez completed 183 laps over two days at Imola in a 2023 Ferrari SF-23, which Ferrari loaned to Cadillac. This marked Perez's first time back in an F1 car since the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
- Team Preparation: While the car itself was obsolete, the test served as a vital opportunity for Cadillac's trackside crew—comprised of mechanics from various teams—to practice essential race procedures, including blanket procedures, start sequences, and rapid pit stop turnarounds.
- Perez's Performance: Team boss Graeme Lowdon was particularly encouraged by Perez's physical condition and enthusiasm, noting his ability to cope with the immense physical demands of an F1 car, especially on the neck, after a year out of the seat. Lowdon emphasized Perez's "positive attitude of a racer."
- Simulated Scenarios: The extensive mileage allowed the team to simulate various race scenarios, such as car entries, ERS system alarms, and emergency procedures, helping to standardize practices among the diverse crew.
- Valtteri Bottas's Role: Lowdon confirmed that Valtteri Bottas will join Cadillac after the 2025 season, bringing his own wealth of experience. Both Perez and Bottas, with a combined 16 Grand Prix wins and 106 podiums, are seen as critical assets for the team's ambitious debut.
What's next:
Cadillac's strategic move to secure two highly experienced drivers like Perez and Bottas, coupled with rigorous team preparation, underscores their serious commitment to F1. The focus now shifts to developing their own F1 car and power unit for the 2026 season, with the foundation laid by these early tests and driver acquisitions being key to their future success.