Cadillac's debut in Formula 1 has been steady, with some challenges but also signs of promise. After three races, the team looks to build on their reliability and aim for their first points.
Cadillac's entry into Formula 1 in 2026 marks the first completely new team on the grid in ten years. With Graeme Lowdon steering the ship, the team has brought back veterans Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas, setting a solid foundation for their rookie season. So, three races in, how are they faring?
For a newcomer, Cadillac is holding its own. Entering F1 is never a walk in the park, especially when you're short on data compared to seasoned rivals. Cadillac anticipated a challenging start, focusing on reliability and a strong base to build upon. During testing in Bahrain, the team encountered a few hiccups but managed a fair number of laps.
Running on Ferrari engines, Cadillac benefits from additional data, not just from Ferrari itself but also from Haas. These engines have proven fairly reliable, allowing Perez to finish every race so far, though Bottas hit a snag in Australia and Shanghai.
The team's toughest moment came when Perez and Bottas collided in China, a mishap they both apologized for, deemed a racing incident by stewards. Though they haven't scored points yet, Bottas's 13th place finish offers a glimmer of hope.
Reliability has been a strong suit for Cadillac, with Perez completing all races and the Sprint. Many new teams struggle more with reliability at this stage. Perez's performance in Japan, finishing on the lead lap, shows progress from Australia, where he was three laps down. Qualifying has also seen improvements, with Perez closing the gap to Aston Martin.
As Ferrari compiles more engine data, Cadillac stands to benefit, especially in optimizing power units. With two experienced drivers who understand the workings of top teams, Cadillac is poised for further progress this season.
Despite improvements, Cadillac remains in a battle at the back with Aston Martin and occasionally Williams. Their data deficit could hinder their ability to address issues as quickly as rivals might. With only three races down, the sample size is small, and competitors like Williams may still leap forward.
Both drivers and team boss Lowdon express optimism. Perez and Bottas emphasize teamwork over personal glory, with Perez noting the team's progress in Japan, and Bottas describing the race as "cleaner." Lowdon praises the team's execution and reliability, hinting at further improvements with an upgrade package set for Miami.
Cadillac needs a mix of reliability, speed, and a bit of luck. More laps mean more data, crucial in this developmental race. While every team craves speed, Cadillac's potential for gains is significant if they can maximize their Ferrari engine and refine their chassis.
A touch of fortune wouldn't hurt either — a chaotic race could provide the perfect opportunity for Cadillac to snag their first points in their debut season.