Cadillac’s 2026 F1 Debut: Who Could Lead the American Dream on the Grid?

Cadillac’s highly anticipated entry into Formula 1 in 2026, as part of the Andretti Global partnership, has already created a seismic stir across the motorsport landscape. As the American luxury brand prepares to make its F1 debut, one major question looms large: who will be behind the wheel?

With the FIA having approved the Andretti-Cadillac project and the team now pushing to be grid-ready by the start of the 2026 season, attention is swiftly turning to the driver market. Will Cadillac opt for experience to navigate the brutal learning curve of F1’s elite? Or will they place a bold bet on young talent or even an American driver to boost stateside appeal?

Insiders and paddock pundits have floated several names — some obvious, others less so.

Here’s a deep dive into the drivers Cadillac may target as it builds its inaugural Formula 1 lineup. ### The Experienced Veterans: Bottas and Pérez

#### Valtteri Bottas The Finnish driver, currently with Stake F1 Team (formerly Alfa Romeo), has become one of the most frequently mentioned names in Cadillac's orbit. Bottas brings a wealth of experience — ten Grand Prix victories, a stint as Lewis Hamilton’s teammate at Mercedes, and deep technical understanding.

At 36 by 2026, Bottas would represent a steadying presence for a brand-new team, offering consistency, setup feedback, and leadership. His familiarity with Mercedes power units and multiple constructors’ cultures could be invaluable. Bottas has expressed openness to long-term projects if the environment is right: “I want to be part of something where I can make a difference,” he said recently.

Cadillac could offer exactly that. #### Sergio Pérez If Red Bull decides to part ways with Sergio Pérez before or at the end of 2025 — which remains a distinct possibility given the team’s ruthlessly competitive philosophy — the Mexican driver could become a prime free agent. Pérez, 36 by 2026, boasts race wins, podiums, and an aggressive racing style that could be a good fit for a team looking to make a statement.

His marketing appeal across Latin America and North America is also undeniable — especially for an American brand like Cadillac looking to grow its presence in global markets. However, Pérez may have other options, and some question whether he'd join a team not expected to be competitive immediately. ### Rising Talents: Pato O’Ward, Theo Pourchaire, and Colton Herta

#### Pato O’Ward The popular Mexican driver currently competing in IndyCar with Arrow McLaren has long expressed interest in F1.

While McLaren holds his contract rights, a 2026 debut might offer a window to jump to F1 — especially if Andretti can negotiate a release. O’Ward’s pace and charisma would be a marketing dream for Cadillac. His proven success in single-seaters makes him more than a branding tool — he’s a legitimate talent.

#### Theo Pourchaire The 2023 Formula 2 champion and current reserve driver at Sauber, Pourchaire is another name being linked to Cadillac. If he doesn't find a full-time F1 seat by 2025, he could be available as an experienced junior with immense upside. While not American, his European experience could provide balance alongside a more commercial pick.

#### Colton Herta Perhaps the most obvious — and polarizing — American name is Colton Herta. The Andretti-affiliated IndyCar star has long been linked with an F1 switch, and Cadillac’s arrival might finally present the right opportunity. Though previous attempts to bring him into F1 were blocked by Super Licence point issues, Herta is expected to be eligible by 2026.

He has raw speed and a loyal fanbase, especially in the U. S. The real question is whether Cadillac is ready to bank on a rookie with no F1 race experience.

### The Dark Horses: Logan Sargeant, Mick Schumacher, and Others

#### Logan Sargeant As America’s current lone F1 driver (with Williams), Sargeant may find himself without a seat if his performances don’t improve. But with Cadillac’s American identity, he could be a fallback option — especially if they want a U. S.

-born driver alongside a more seasoned teammate. His rookie season was rocky, but some believe his best is yet to come. #### Mick Schumacher Still under Mercedes' wing and currently a reserve driver, Schumacher remains a media draw due to his famous surname.

His time at Haas was mixed, but a return to the grid with a fresh project could reignite his F1 career. He offers marketing appeal, political neutrality in the paddock, and a relatively low-risk profile. #### Others to Watch Names like Jack Doohan (Alpine junior), Frederik Vesti (Mercedes junior), and even IndyCar’s Alex Palou could surface if Cadillac aims to surprise.

It’s also possible the team opts for a total wildcard — a fresh F2 talent who shines in 2025. ### Strategic Considerations for Cadillac

#### 1. Balance Between Experience and Marketability Most new F1 teams struggle initially.

To counter that, a mix of experience and long-term development potential is key. Signing a Bottas-type veteran alongside a younger American like Herta or O’Ward could balance performance and public appeal. #### 2.

Manufacturer Influence While Cadillac may push for marketing-driven signings, Andretti’s racing DNA could steer the selection toward merit. The key will be aligning the driver lineup with both commercial goals and sporting viability. #### 3.

Super Licence Hurdles As seen with Herta previously, driver eligibility is no guarantee. Whoever Cadillac signs must meet the Super Licence points threshold — a factor that may remove several exciting U. S.

-based drivers from the conversation. ### Timeline and Decision Points Driver lineups for 2026 will likely begin taking shape by mid-2025, as contracts expire and grid dynamics shift. Cadillac is expected to formalize its shortlist by the end of the 2025 F1 season to ensure ample testing and preparation time.

Test sessions in late 2025 — or private simulator development — may be crucial in assessing how new signings adapt to evolving technical regulations, including the introduction of new power units. ### Final Thoughts Cadillac's entry into Formula 1 represents more than a new team — it's the fusion of American racing heritage with the world’s most elite motorsport. That means their driver choices will be scrutinized heavily — by fans, media, and competitors alike.

Will they go for reliability and leadership in Bottas? Star power in Pérez? Bold youth in Herta or O’Ward? Or perhaps surprise everyone with a driver few are discussing today?

Whatever the outcome, Cadillac’s choices will shape not only its competitive future, but its global image as it enters the F1 arena. Expect announcements and speculation to intensify in the coming months — and keep your eyes on the paddock.