Perez Drives Historic Black Ferrari in Cadillac TPC Test
Sergio Perez drove a Ferrari SF-23 in a rare black livery during Cadillac's inaugural TPC test at Imola, marking a significant step for the new F1 entrant. Cadillac, with Bottas and Perez as drivers, will initially use Ferrari power units, aiming for their own engine by 2029. This historic test signifies Cadillac's serious commitment to Formula 1.
Sergio Perez recently made history by driving a Ferrari SF-23 in a black livery during Cadillac's inaugural TPC (Testing of Previous Car) event at Imola. This marks the first time since Michael Schumacher in 1997 that a Ferrari F1 car has run in black.
Why it matters:
After years of speculation, Cadillac is officially joining the Formula 1 grid in the upcoming season, aiming to bring a new American presence to the sport. Their initial driver lineup of Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, combined with Ferrari's support as a power unit supplier, signifies a serious and well-resourced entry into the highly competitive world of F1. This test is a crucial step in their preparation.
The Details:
- Historic Livery: The Ferrari SF-23 driven by Perez featured a black livery, a sight not seen since Michael Schumacher tested the F300 at Fiorano in 1997.
- Cadillac's Entry: Cadillac will be the 11th team on the F1 grid, with Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez confirmed as full-time drivers. American driver Colton Herta will serve as the test driver while competing in Formula 2.
- TPC Test: Perez completed Cadillac's first-ever two-day TPC event at Imola. This test was primarily for driver training purposes, rather than immediate car development.
- Ferrari Partnership: Ferrari is set to supply Cadillac with power units and gearboxes until the 2028 season. Cadillac aims to introduce its own power units for the 2029 campaign.
What's next:
This TPC test with Perez is just the beginning of Cadillac's journey into Formula 1. With Bottas set to join full-time after fulfilling his current commitments with Mercedes, the team will continue to build its operational foundation.
- The focus will now shift to further integrating their operations with Ferrari's technical support, ensuring a smooth transition into the sport.
- As the 2025 season approaches, more details about Cadillac's car design, team structure, and pre-season testing plans are expected to emerge, providing a clearer picture of their potential on the grid.
- The long-term goal for Cadillac is to develop and implement their own power units by 2029, showcasing their ambition to become a fully independent and competitive constructor in Formula 1.