‘A Lot’ of F1 Driver Talks Ahead, Says Cadillac Boss

Formula 1’s newest team, Cadillac, set to join the grid in 2026, is already at the centre of a fierce driver market tussle, with team principal Graeme Lowdon confirming multiple candidates are in the frame for their two race seats.

Colton Herta, the IndyCar standout from Andretti, remains the front-runner to bring an American flavour—a key aim for Cadillac. Yet his path is blocked by a shortfall in FIA super licence points. “If that remains the case then it will clearly be a barrier for him,” Lowdon acknowledged, highlighting the regulatory hurdle that could derail Herta’s shot despite his pedigree.

Logan Sargeant, another American with the requisite credentials, is a wildcard. Dropped by Williams mid-2024 and recently withdrawn from a planned 2025 sports car stint, he’s currently adrift. “As far as I know, Logan is no longer involved in motorsport,” Lowdon said. “He’s American, but no, we haven’t had any discussions with him.” Sargeant’s F1 experience makes him a contender, but Cadillac’s silence suggests he’s not yet on their radar.

Sergio Perez, ousted from Red Bull, offers a Latin American twist—and hefty Mexican sponsorship. His father, Antonio Perez Garibay, hinted at big plans on Mexican television: “Sergio is preparing something big and important for the Mexican fans – they will be very happy and proud, and I hope it will last for many years. Sergio is looking forward to returning to become a champion, because that is the only thing he is missing.” Perez’s title hunger could align with Cadillac’s ambitions.

Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu, both axed from Sauber, are also circling. Zhou’s edge lies in his Ferrari ties—Cadillac’s 2026 engine supplier—and his link to Lowdon, who manages his career. “There is no preference in any direction, either for him or for any other driver,” Lowdon insisted. “We are here to do a job, so we will choose drivers based on merit. There are some very good ones available, including Zhou.” Bottas brings seasoned nous, while Zhou offers youth and connections.

Lowdon’s inbox is brimming: “My phone is definitely busy. There are easily half a dozen candidates, if not more, who have extremely good credentials to be in Formula 1 or to end up back there.” Mick Schumacher’s pushing for a return, unlike Daniel Ricciardo, who’s ruled himself out. “It’s a bit too early to go into too much more detail because we’re only now in a position to have meaningful discussions,” Lowdon added. With talks heating up, Cadillac’s driver call could shape F1’s 2026 grid.