Cadillac are yet to confirm either of their 2026 driver signings, as their F1 debut inches ever closer. The American outfit are currently in negotiations with several options, including Aston Martin reserve Felipe Drugovich.
The Brazilian has been on Cadillac’s shortlist for some time, and is understood to still be under consideration.
As contract talks advance, the 25-year-old’s camp are pushing to set themselves apart from the other candidates.
Cadillac consider Drugovich as negotiations intensify
Since their F1 entry was confirmed last winter, Cadillac’s driver selection has been the subject of intense speculation.
Whilst most teams have their 2026 line-ups set in stone, Cadillac are more active than anyone else in the driver market.
One of their options for next year is Felipe Drugovich, who has competed for Cadillac in IMSA.
Since winning the Formula 2 Championship three years ago, Drugovich has been unequivocal in prioritising Formula 1 above all else.
The 25-year-old has turned down opportunities in other racing categories to keep himself firmly in the F1 paddock.
As Cadillac evaluate their options, Drugovich brings plenty of assets to the table.
In terms of pure pace, there is no reason why the Brazilian cannot be a competent F1 driver.
His triumph in Formula 2 – alongside numerous FP1 appearances for Aston Martin – indicate he would not be out of place on the grid.
Although drawing conclusions from his 2022 F2 title and occasional Free Practice appearances is tricky, Cadillac are unlikely to be put off by his relative inactivity in recent years.
Instead, other considerations could be decisive in contract talks.
As established previously on LWOS, Cadillac team principal Graeme Lowdon is looking for at least one experienced driver.
However, younger candidates are also being evaluated to potentially compliment a more veteran figure.
With Cadillac looking to grow their brand, Drugovich’s commercial potential is an important factor to consider.
He also brings significant sponsorship with him – something which has been crucial in making other drivers (such as Franco Colapinto) more attractive to teams.
This is not to suggest the Brazilian cannot earn a contract on merit alone.
With that said, Formula 1 is a complicated equation – and Drugovich could tick several boxes for Cadillac.
Bottas cemented as favourite to become Cadillac’s first 2026 signing
Over the course of 2025, a plethora of drivers have been linked with the American team.
This is only natural, with team principal Graeme Lowdon admitting that an extensive list of drivers are being considered.
In recent weeks, however, Valtteri Bottas has steadily risen as a favourite to become Cadillac’s first signing.
The Finn has a solid track record in Formula 1, from his 10 race victories at Mercedes to impressive results in the midfield for Williams and Alfa Romeo.
For a team making their debut, there are few names who bring more assurance than Bottas.
Whilst other veterans like Sergio Perez are also in contention, the Mercedes reserve driver is increasingly seen as the front-runner.
Of course, Bottas and Perez have both spoken with Alpine in recent months – with the French squad still assessing their options ahead of the regulation changes.
Still, Cadillac are seen as a more stable destination for Bottas – something the Finn will prioritise for 2026.
This should provide some wriggle-room to explore younger options in the market, such as Drugovich, as Cadillac finalise their preparations for next year.
Main photo: Zak Mauger/LAT Images (via Aston Martin media gallery)
