Cadillac Nearly Passed on Pérez: “We Were Looking for Young Talent”

Cadillac’s new Formula 1 team entered the paddock with the ambition of nurturing young talent. Yet when the time came to finalize its line-up, the American outfit turned to two seasoned veterans: Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez.

During the Italian Grand Prix, CEO Dan Towriss admitted that Bottas had originally been slated to partner with a much younger driver. But a face-to-face meeting with Pérez shifted the team’s perspective entirely.

More about Cadillac

Sergio Pérez, the Black Ferrari and the Road to Cadillac

Nov 14

Bottas Expresses Confidence in Hamilton: “He Still Has the Talent”

Oct 14

A meeting that changed everything
Pérez, Towriss recalled, left a lasting impression on Cadillac’s leadership in what he described as a “perfect meeting.” The Mexican made such a strong case for himself that the team pivoted away from its youthful ambitions.

“We asked: was he willing to race again? Where was he in his career? What were his ambitions? Was he excited about this project, and what did he still want to achieve? What did he feel he still had to prove?” Towriss told Sky Sports. “During that meeting, we saw just how experienced Pérez really was. He was the icing on the cake — and he walked away genuinely enthusiastic about joining us.” Until then, Cadillac’s preference had been clear: sign a younger driver, ideally an American. But Pérez’s mix of experience and motivation proved too compelling to ignore. “He was fantastic,” Towriss added. “That experience sets him apart from those who have never sat in a Formula 1 car.”

Others left empty-handed
The decision left several hopefuls without a seat. Mick Schumacher was considered a serious candidate, with team advisor Graeme Lowdon reportedly a strong supporter. Felipe Drugovich and Colton Herta were also in the running, though neither secured a full-time drive.

Herta, however, will still play a role within the team. The IndyCar star has been signed as Cadillac’s official test and reserve driver, maintaining a connection to the squad and keeping the door open for future opportunities.

Experience above all
By signing Pérez, Cadillac ensures its debut season will be guided by one of the most experienced drivers on the grid. The Mexican will turn 36 next year and is set to embark on his fifteenth Formula 1 campaign. Over the years, he has represented teams including Sauber, McLaren, Force India, Racing Point, and most recently Red Bull Racing. Now, Pérez adds Cadillac to that list — bringing credibility, experience, and a steady hand as the ambitious American team makes its long-awaited entrance into Formula 1.