Cadillac have generally exceeded expectations this season, with the US team proving it can holds its own in Formula 1.
As a new team, their chances of being competitive were widely downplayed. Many analysts assumed they would struggle to even reach the 107% threshold to qualify for races.
This is why Cadillac’s performance (which until Hungary was comparable to Aston Martin) has been such a pleasant surprise.
Beyond this, however, there is a story developing about Cadillac’s driver line-up for next season – which is yet to be finalised.
Camara on 2027 Cadillac shortlist
Heading into this season, Cadillac spoke extensively about the importance of securing an experienced driver combination.
They successfully achieved this by signing Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas, two drivers who have spent over a decade in the sport. For a new team, this line-up is very impressive.
Generally speaking, analysing the relative performance of the Cadillac duo has been tricky.
Since a variety of reliability issues have often impact performance in qualifying and race day, the deficits between Perez and Bottas can be misleading.
It should also be noted that Cadillac often experiment with different components, meaning their drivers often test various parts (affecting ultimate pace) throughout a race weekend.
Due to their experience, the Cadillac pair are more than capable of giving valuable feedback.
With that said, this does not mean Graeme Lowdon’s team are unwilling to sign a younger talent. Indeed, reports from motorsport.uol suggest the US squad have F2 driver Rafael Camara on their radar for 2027.
The 21-year-old is currently third in the Formula 2 Standings, and has generated plenty of interest across the paddock.
Critically, Camara is a Ferrari junior driver. Not only has the Scuderia’s backing helped his career progression until now, but it could be crucial for unlocking doors to Formula 1.
Why Camara is a feasible option for Cadillac
Although Cadillac have generally spoken about the importance of experienced drivers, this point should not be overstated.
After all, they were initially interested in getting Colton Herta into one of their seats for 2026. It was only a lack of Superlicense points that meant the American could not earn a place in Formula 1.
Once this season concludes, Cadillac will be more inclined to considering if there is any young talent available they can sign and develop.
Speaking or Herta, the American was once seen as a candidate to join Cadillac in 2027. However, currently sitting 16th in the Formula 2 standings, this option seems unlikely.
Camara, meanwhile, is a young driver competing for the F2 Championship. His speed is obvious, and as a young driver his room for growth is significant.
Beyond this, Camara’s status as a Ferrari junior cannot be overlooked. Cadillac are a Ferrari customer team, and therefore have important ties with the Italian outfit.
Although Cadillac will take an independent decision on their drivers, they could hit two birds with one stone by signing Camara – strengthening their relations with Ferrari and adding a talented driver to their line-up.
It is no coincidence that Camara has also been linked to a 2027 Haas seat, with Komatsu’s team also using Ferrari power units.
However, owing to Toyota’s growing investment in Haas, Ferrari’s influence over their driver pairing is weaker than it has been traditionally. Therefore, Cadillac becomes a more plausible destination.
Camara also brings sizeable commercial potential, with the Brazilian sponsor likely to command substantial appeal to fans and sponsors should be make the jump to F1.
Whilst these are only initial reports, this part of the driver market is worth following.
