With Cadillac’s F1 debut season approaching, the American team’s driver lineup remains a mystery. For months, speculation has swirled around possible signings: Mick Schumacher, Sergio Pérez, Valtteri Bottas, Felipe Drugovich, and others. While public expectations and media buzz are not particularly high, for those drivers currently without seats, this is an opportunity too enticing to ignore.
According to a report from Racing News on August 22, Cadillac is set to announce its first signed driver very soon. As many had predicted, Valtteri Bottas is expected to finalize his deal with the American team in the coming days, with an official announcement likely during the Dutch Grand Prix. A second driver is also said to be close to signing. Bottas has long been linked with Cadillac and has publicly stated that returning to the grid is his top priority.
Last month, Bottas posted a video on social media featuring himself with a Cadillac SUV, hinting at an announcement, but no further updates followed—until now. Reports indicate Cadillac intends to use an older Ferrari chassis for testing in the second half of 2025. Bottas’s signing is directly tied to this purpose, giving him track time to help the team refine procedures before winter testing and strengthen synergy between driver and engineers. It is unclear whether Bottas has already concluded his reserve driver duties with Mercedes, though Toto Wolff previously suggested he would not block Bottas from moving to another team.
The 35-year-old Finn raced for Mercedes from 2017 to 2021, during which he earned 10 Grand Prix wins, 20 pole positions, and 58 podiums. His vast experience is invaluable to Cadillac, allowing the team to focus on car development. An experienced driver can instantly identify problems and even suggest solutions—feedback that is essential for a new team. By contrast, less experienced drivers often provide vague or inaccurate input, slowing progress.
Meanwhile, Racing News also reported that Sergio Pérez is close to finalizing his own deal with Cadillac, with a potential joint announcement alongside Bottas. Some insiders, however, believe the team may delay Pérez’s reveal until the Mexican Grand Prix in October. Backed by a new management team, Pérez has actively sought a return to F1, maintaining dialogue with Cadillac throughout the year. Despite struggling during his final 18 months at Red Bull, Pérez remains a proven and experienced driver. His reputation has actually risen since his exit, particularly as replacements Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda have failed to match his consistency and pace.
Now, perspectives on Pérez’s so-called “decline” are shifting. Many are re-evaluating his worth, and a Bottas–Pérez partnership could provide Cadillac with exactly what it needs: seasoned expertise. If the car proves even moderately competitive, both drivers could deliver points. With sweeping new regulations coming next year, experience will be critical. Together, the two veterans boast 16 Grand Prix victories—making their signing arguably Cadillac’s smartest move yet. Fans may even witness something resembling the fictional Sonny Hayes storyline brought to life.
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