Johnny Herbert warns Cadillac faces 'very tough' F1 debut
Johnny Herbert predicts a difficult F1 debut for Cadillac, suggesting the new GM-led team will struggle against established giants despite signing veterans Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez.
Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert has issued a stark warning to the incoming Cadillac team, predicting a “very tough” debut season as they prepare to expand the grid to 11 teams. Despite the project's evolution from Michael Andretti's initial bid to a General Motors-led initiative, Herbert believes the American outfit faces a steep learning curve against established powerhouses like Red Bull, Ferrari, and Mercedes.
Why it matters:
The addition of an 11th team marks the first grid expansion in a decade, promising a significant shake-up in the sport's dynamics. However, Herbert's comments highlight the immense difficulty of bridging the gap to the front of the grid, a challenge that even manufacturer backing and experienced personnel may not solve overnight. It sets realistic expectations for fans and stakeholders regarding the team's initial performance against the "greats of the sport."
The details:
- Steep Learning Curve: Herbert emphasized on the Stay On Track podcast that building a team from scratch is a "whole new learning experience," regardless of the experience within the ranks.
- The Timeline: The former driver suggested it could take "four or five years" for Cadillac to truly compete at the sharp end of the grid.
- Driver Lineup: The team has reportedly secured a formidable driver pairing in Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez. While both are race winners with vast experience at top teams, Herbert notes they will likely be relegated to fighting for the "last few rows" initially.
- Management Structure: With Graeme Lowdon appointed as team principal, the outfit has leadership experience, but Herbert questions if there is enough time for all the elements to gel quickly enough to avoid being backmarkers.
Looking Ahead:
As Cadillac gears up for its entry, the focus will shift from hype to execution. While the long-term goal is to challenge the established elite, the immediate reality appears to be a battle for survival and development at the back of the pack.