Which Drivers Are In The Running For The Cadillac Hotseats In 2026?

Formula One is only halfway through the 2025 season, but already both fans and the paddock itself have one eye on next season. McLaren’s monster pairing of Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris is without question the team to beat this term. Next year, however, two industry titans—namely, Cadillac and Audi—are poised to make their debut on the world’s most prestigious grid. 

No one quite knows what to expect from the duo just yet. Over the years, numerous new teams have attempted to establish themselves in the world of F1, with varying levels of success. Ross Brawn’s Brawn GP claimed the world title in its sole season as a team, while the less said about the likes of Virgin, Hispania, and Caterham, the better. 

One thing for certain, though, is that both new teams – everyone else on the grid, for that matter – will have their work cut out for them if they are to overthrow McLaren. At least that’s what online gambling sites think. The latest odds from the popular Bovada online gambling site currently have both Piastri and Norris as the sole championship contenders this season, pricing the former as a -165 betting favorite and the latter at +125. The next nearest contender? Red Bull’s Max Verstappen is at a whopping +2000. 

Of the two new teams, Audi has wasted no time, locking in a lineup of seasoned veteran Nico Hülkenberg and youthful prodigy Gabriel Bortoleto. But Cadillac? They’ve opted to keep their cards close to their chest. So, who are the current contenders to secure the seats with the American motoring giant? Let’s take a look. 

Valtteri Bottas

When it comes to reliability and experience, few drivers match Valtteri Bottas’ pedigree. The Finn’s career has been defined by his five illustrious years at Mercedes, where he worked hand-in-hand with Lewis Hamilton to secure an unprecedented era of dominance for the Silver Arrows. The pair combined to secure the latter five of eight straight constructors’ championships, the longest streak in history. 

Recently, Bottas has been making headlines, with the official Formula website reporting that he’s been spotted testing privately—clear evidence that Cadillac may already have Bottas in their sights. Why is he such a strong candidate? His ability to lead car development, gleaned from years at a top-tier team, is an asset Cadillac will need desperately as it finds its footing in Formula One. 

Pair this with his unflappable temperament and knack for consistency, and you have a potential linchpin for the American team. The real question is, could Bottas be the steady hand Cadillac builds its foundation upon?

Sergio Pérez

Between his aggressive racing style and a proven history of dispatching rivals in tight battles, Sergio Pérez is a name that guarantees race-day drama. The Mexican’s achievements span multiple victories and podium finishes, most recently with Red Bull, where he solidified himself as one of the grid’s canniest operators. Whether it’s holding off fierce challengers or managing tires others can’t, Pérez excels in the art of racecraft.

Adding another layer to the intrigue, numerous sources suggest that Pérez is actively in talks with Cadillac, with announcements rumored to drop soon. Why would Checo be a perfect fit? His Latin American heritage offers Cadillac an ideal chance to tap into a vast and passionate fan base, not to mention his marketability across the Americas. On track, Pérez could deliver the consistency of an experienced campaigner, while off track, he could help anchor Cadillac’s global identity. 

Mick Schumacher

The Schumacher name is synonymous with greatness, and while Mick Schumacher has yet to match the stellar heights of his father, Michael, his potential has not gone unnoticed. After two turbulent seasons with Haas, Mick spent his 2023 campaign as a reserve driver for Mercedes, soaking up invaluable knowledge from within a championship-winning operation.

Mick himself has confirmed discussions with Cadillac, igniting hopes for a possible comeback. But why, Mick, and why now? The marketing allure of the Schumacher legacy is undeniable. For a rookie team like Cadillac, signing Mick would offer instant media attention and credibility. Beyond the surname, Mick’s genuine work ethic and hunger to develop as a driver make him an exciting prospect. 

Colton Herta

For a team donning the stars and stripes of Cadillac, few candidates fit the brief as perfectly as Colton Herta. The young phenom has taken the IndyCar circuit by storm with his fearless style, quickly cementing himself as one of America’s brightest motorsport talents. The 25-year-old’s rapid-fire performances and ice-cool demeanor under intense pressure have brought him to the cusp of international stardom, and Formula One seems to be the next logical step. 

The caveat to Herta’s F1 dreams lies in the logistics of securing a super license—an FIA requirement that he’s yet to meet. However, Cadillac team principal Ben Lowdon has expressed clear interest in pairing an experienced driver with a homegrown American talent. Could Herta, with his combination of potential and marketing appeal, be the homegrown superstar Cadillac needs not just to race, but to represent the brand to its fullest?