Cadilac Prepares for Formula 1 Debut

As the launch of Cadillac’s inaugural Formula 1 car approaches in under two months, the team is utilizing virtual resources to develop its first contender and train its trackside personnel.

Recently, Cadillac revealed its full set of simulator drivers, including 2016 IndyCar champion Simon Pagenaud, Corvette driver Charlie Eastwood, and two-time F1 participant Pietro Fittipaldi, all collaborating at General Motors’ simulators in Charlotte.

This trio has been instrumental in conducting extensive race weekend simulations at numerous grand prix events since June’s Barcelona race, operating from mission control centers in Silverstone and Charlotte.

Colton Herta has also joined as a development driver, while 2026 competitor Sergio Perez has initiated collaboration with the team in recent weeks. Cadillac must wait for Perez’s partner, Valtteri Bottas, due to his ongoing contract with Mercedes as a reserve driver.

While Cadillac has mostly organized its driver lineup, it currently lacks physical hardware. Former Manor chief Graeme Lowdon is building the team from the ground up, creating a car based on the entirely new 2026 regulations, which won’t be tested until January next year.

Lowdon expressed hope for an expedited timeline, indicating that the team is pursuing an agreement with its engine supplier, Ferrari, to acquire an older model car—not for racing, but to test its mechanics as they prepare.

Even in the absence of a previous car, Lowdon is focused on ensuring his team gains practical experience with current F1 setups, emphasizing that they want to cultivate the same expertise as their competitors. If necessary, they might use existing LMDh cars for pit stop drills while searching for the closest match to a Formula 1 vehicle.