On paper, a new entry like Cadillac might face difficulty in assembling an experienced F1 driver line-up. After all, an unproven team is less likely to attract established names than others with more proven track records.
With that said, Cadillac find themselves in the fortunate position of several F1-calibre drivers being available.
The US project have plenty of options for 2026, including some very accomplished drivers. This should set the stage for a period of intense contract negotiations in the coming months.
Cadillac: Who is on their radar?
It is no secret that Cadillac are looking for at least one American driver to make up their driver duo.
Logically, they are also looking for someone with experience in Formula 1. In a broad sense, this is the criteria they will use when deciding their 2026 line-up.
Regarding the potential for signing someone from the US, Colton Herta is seen as the favourite to secure a seat.
The 24-year-old is very highly rated, both within the IndyCar paddock and beyond it.
Herta was on track to join AlphaTauri for the 2023 season – only for a lack of Super License points to prevent him from joining the F1 grid.
Regardless, the Andretti Global driver should be one of the front-runners over the coming months.
Valtteri Bottas is easily one of the most sensible options for Cadillac in 2026.
The Finn brings a combination of speed and much-needed experience to the table – two qualities that make him an extremely safe bet for a new team.
Returning to F1 is a top priority for Bottas – so he will undoubtedly feature in contract talks.
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Another name for Cadillac to consider is Sergio Perez. Whilst his difficult 2023 and 2024 campaigns at Red Bull damaged the Mexican driver’s market value, he is still a plausible fit for Cadillac.
His vast experience, impressive midfield record and considerable commercial pull in the Americas could make him an important asset in 2026.
Zhou Guanyu not to be overlooked
Someone whose driver stocks increased quite notably in the final rounds of 2024 was Zhou Guanyu.
The Sauber driver capitalised on a rare opportunity for points in Qatar – securing a P8 result that boosted his negotiating position heading into the winter break.
Partly because of Zhou’s strong end to 2024, he has been confirmed as a Ferrari reserve driver for 2025.
After weeks of negotiations, the 25-year-old returns to the team where he was once in the driver academy.
However, another important dimension must be considered regarding this move – Graeme Lowdon.
Lowdon was announced as Cadillac F1’s team principal at the end of last year, having previously served as Sporting Director for Marussia in the early 2010s.
Crucially, Lowdon was also a part of Zhou Guanyu’s management team for several years.
It stands to reason that Zhou, who brings reasonable experience, a safe pair of hands and significant sponsorship, was always going to be a possibility for Cadillac.
Therefore, Lowdon’s position at Cadillac acts as another boost for the Chinese driver and his F1 prospects.
Considering that Ferrari engines will power the US team in 2o26, there are already plenty of noteworthy links.
As the year develops, a clearer image on Cadillac’s preferred option should emerge.
