Did you know that there have been only 10 teams in Formula 1 for the past 8 years? For the first time since 2016, the 2026 F1 grid will feature 11 different motorsport teams, with the entry of the new Cadillac F1 team. The team has selected its members as Valtteri Bottas (debuted 2013) and Sergio Perez (debuted 2011), both drivers who “peaked” from around 2018-2020. Many speculations have been circulating since this announcement, like “how will the team do?” or, “Why have they not picked newer drivers?” Let’s find out more!
There’s no denying that both Bottas and Perez bring immense talent to the team. Together, the two of them have over 500 Grand Prix starts and over 100 podiums, emphasizing their high success rate throughout their careers. General Motors News says that “their leadership, feedback, race-hardened instincts and of course their speed will be invaluable as we bring this team to life.” The team undoubtedly has a combined experience that is beyond many of the current drivers, and that will be sure to benefit them in the upcoming season.
Ruth Herman ‘26, an avid F1 watcher since the beginning of the 2024 season, says that she was “super excited for Checo (Sergio Perez) and Bottas to have a new team….I was happy to see them back on the grid.” When asked about how she thought the season would go, Ruth answered honestly that she thinks the season “will start off badly,” as she thinks the car could definitely use some improvements. Despite the skepticism, Ruth thinks that this new team can bring a lot of other benefits to the sport. “I feel like Cadillac will possibly bring more variety to the grid. Now that there are 11 teams, what’s stopping a 12th team?” Ruth also emphasizes that this change will probably bring in more US fans. The team principals have made clear that although most of the work will be done in the UK, it is named as an American F1 Team.
As well as finding 2 of the best drivers possible, the team has also begun fast-paced improvements internally. Phillip Horton from Auto Week states that “Cadillac now has around 400 people across six buildings at Silverstone, and it looks like a fully-fledged Formula 1 team.”
The American team has just under 250 days until they debut in Melbourne for the 2026 season. With the promising new drivers and the dedication already being put in so far in the pre-season, results are sure to come for this team! If you are looking for a window to start watching F1, this season is a great chance to get into it.
