Lowdon: Bottas and Perez reflect Cadillac’s ‘bold signal of intent’

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Cadillac F1 team principal Graeme Lowdon says the decision to sign experienced Grand Prix winners Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez sends a “bold signal of intent” as the new American outfit prepares to join the grid in 2026.

The TWG Motorsports-owned squad confirmed on Tuesday that Bottas and Perez will anchor its debut season driver line-up, giving the sport’s eleventh entrant proven foundation of speed, experience, and leadership.

The pair bring with them a combined record of 16 victories in F1, over 100 podium finishes, and more than 500 race starts.

Operating out of a European headquarters in Silverstone as well as facilities in Indiana and North Carolina, Cadillac F1 is starting from scratch — but with the clear ambition of being competitive from the outset.

Lowdon: Leadership and Experience Will Be Key

For Lowdon, the choice to prioritize a pair of veteran drivers over younger prospects was a deliberate one. The Briton believes Bottas and Perez offer the knowledge and stability required to accelerate the team’s development.

“Signing two very experienced racers like Bottas and Checo is a bold signal of intent,” said Lowdon.

“They’ve seen it all and they know what it takes to succeed in F1. But more importantly, they understand what it means to help build a team.

Cadillac F1 team principal Graeme Lowdon (©Cadillac Communications).

Their leadership, feedback, race-hardened instincts and of course their speed will be invaluable as we bring this team to life. A big thank you to the team at Mercedes for their co-operation and understanding.”

Towriss: More Than Just A Lineup Announcement

TWG and Cadillac F1 CEO Dan Towriss echoed Lowdon’s sentiments, stressing that Bottas and Perez represent more than proven on-track talent.

“Bottas and Checo bring the perfect balance of talent, maturity, and drive,” Towriss said.

“They’re not just accomplished racers, they’re builders, collaborators, and professionals who will help define what the Cadillac Formula 1 Team stands for.

“This moment marks more than just a lineup announcement. It’s the beginning of a bold new chapter in American motorsport.”

Reuss: Building an American Motorsport Legacy

General Motors president Mark Reuss underlined Cadillac’s long-term vision, describing the signing of the two drivers as central to establishing a lasting motorsport legacy.

"Our new drivers are a welcome addition to the Cadillac racing family; each brings a depth of experience, and an unwavering passion to win," Reuss said.

"Together, we’re building the foundation for American motorsports that will be an extraordinary legacy for Cadillac, GM and the sport.”

©CadillacF1

Cadillac has made no secret of its desire to eventually nurture American driving talent, but for its first steps in Formula 1, the focus is firmly on proven race winners.

By pairing Bottas and Perez, the team aims to combine knowledge from the sport’s top-tier organizations — Mercedes and Red Bull — with Cadillac’s ambition to make an immediate impact on the global stage.

The announcement signals not just the arrival of a new team, but the start of what Cadillac hopes will be a defining era for American motorsport in Formula 1.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.