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Checo Perez and Cadillac Shapes F1 2026

After a year away from the grid, a Mexican star and a Finnish veteran are set to make their return, joining forces to create one of the most experienced pairings in Formula 1.

Por: Alejandro Carrillo
CHECO PEREZ CADILLAC
The spotlight naturally falls on Checo Perez Cadillac, whose popularity extends far beyond Mexico / Photo Cadillac F1 Team

Checo Pérez, whose comeback seemed uncertain just a week ago, will now partner with Valtteri Bottas to form the new driver duo for Cadillac, the U.S. team that will make its long-awaited debut in 2026.

 

The entry of Cadillac marks the arrival of Formula 1’s eleventh team, powered by Ferrari engines for its first campaign. The project will coincide with the introduction of a new hybrid unit running at a 55/45 split, a regulation change that could radically shake up the competitive order—similar to the disruptions seen in 2024.

Formula 1 Welcomes Cadillac as the Eleventh Team in 2026 / Photo via Cadillac
Cadillac will be the Eleventh team at the 2026 F1 / Photo Cadillac

The announcement was officially made by the American team through its website and social media platforms. The operation is being managed by Graeme Lowdon, a 59-year-old British manager with previous leadership roles at Virgin, Manor, and Marussia. Lowdon also participated in the earlier GM-Andretti F1 bid led by Michael Andretti, which the FIA approved but Formula 1 itself rejected in 2023, citing insufficient added value to the championship.

Driving Latin America into F1’s Future

Following Andretti’s withdrawal in 2025, the reins passed to majority stakeholder TWG Global, with CEO Dan Towriss spearheading the revamped proposal. On March 7, 2025, the entry was officially approved, confirming Cadillac as the eleventh team on the 2026 grid.

 

Lowdon has opted for proven drivers over the inclusion of a U.S. talent, leaving behind rumors surrounding IndyCar star Colton Herta, who months ago was considered almost a certainty. Instead, the combination of Pérez and Bottas brings an impressive résumé of 527 Grands Prix and 16 victories—credentials that ensure reliability and expertise for such an ambitious project.

His arrival also guarantees significant commercial backing, with Carlos Slim’s vast network of companies and sponsors providing essential financial strength / Photo via Cadillac
The combination of Pérez and Bottas brings an impressive résumé of 527 Grands Prix and 16 victories / Photo Cadillac

The spotlight naturally falls on Checo Perez Cadillac, whose popularity extends far beyond Mexico. At 35, the Jalisco-born driver is among the few capable of filling three circuits in a single season, as seen in Mexico City, Austin, and Las Vegas.

Cadillac’s 2026 Dream Team

His arrival also guarantees significant commercial backing, with Carlos Slim’s vast network of companies and sponsors providing essential financial strength. This development is a triumph for Mexico and a proud milestone for Latin American motorsport.

 

“This new chapter with Cadillac in Formula 1 is incredibly exciting for me,” Pérez said in his first remarks. “From the very beginning, I felt the passion and determination driving this project. It’s an honor to be part of building a team that can grow together and, over time, compete at the very front.”

The partnership became official on Tuesday, August 26, though it was already confirmed back in June that Tommy Hilfiger would serve as Cadillac’s official apparel sponsor. This deal covers team uniforms, driver suits, and staff outfits, along with accessories and global campaigns designed to fuse fashion and speed.

 

As the countdown to 2026 continues, the Checo Perez Cadillac alliance promises not only sporting ambition but also a cultural and commercial boost that could redefine the identity of Formula 1’s newest competitor.

Key Information

  • Who will partner with Checo Pérez at Cadillac for the 2026 season? Valtteri Bottas.
  • Which company will supply Cadillac’s engines for its F1 debut? Ferrari.
  • Who leads the Cadillac F1 operation? Graeme Lowdon.
  • What brand will design Cadillac’s official apparel? Tommy Hilfiger.

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