Andretti Explains Why Cadillac F1 Hasn’t Signed Perez Yet

Mario Andretti confirms Cadillac is staying patient as talks with multiple drivers continue, including former Red Bull racer Sergio Perez.

Cadillac F1 is in no rush to lock in its driver lineup for the 2026 season, even if names like Sergio Perez are making the rounds.

At a high-profile red carpet event in Miami Beach on Saturday night, Cadillac’s entry as Formula 1’s eleventh team for next season was officially unveiled. The buzz was electric. Fans crowded the venue, chanting Sergio “Checo” Perez’s name in hopes of an announcement. But that news didn’t come.

And according to Mario Andretti, 1978 F1 World Champion and official advisor to the new GM-backed team, there’s a reason why.

“First of all, a driver has to actually be available,” Andretti said. “I know Perez is talking to other teams too. But no — despite what some major outlets in Europe reported, we haven’t signed him.”

Ralf Schumacher believes Perez would be a strong choice for Cadillac: “He’s a big name in the American market. He understands how to develop a car, he’s worked with new teams before, and he brings solid sponsorship backing. That time off may have done him good, things were rocky for him at Red Bull.”

Cadillac has made it no secret that it’s eyeing an American driver for one of the seats, with Colton Herta at the top of that list. But that move may not happen right away. What matters most, Andretti says, is Formula 1 experience.

“Experience matters,” he said. “But with the way the driver market shifts, timing is everything. We’re watching closely. We don’t want to jump too soon and miss out on a better opportunity.”

So why not lock in someone like Perez or Bottas right now? According to Andretti, it’s all about flexibility.

“We know who we’d like to sign,” he admitted. “But if something better comes up, we have to stay open. We’re not ready to commit just yet. And honestly, there’s a lot of interest — plenty of drivers are knocking on our door.”