With its American roots, Cadillac F1 is exploring driver options, including a potential U.S. star, as it prepares for its F1 debut.
Cadillac F1 is getting ready to dive into the driver market, as confirmed by Graeme Lowdon, the director of the brand-new team set to hit the grid in 2026. The plan? To scout and secure a driver who truly deserves the trust of the American manufacturer.
“Formula 1 is not a playground,” Lowdon stated. “It’s the pinnacle of global motorsport, so our driver selection must be based on merit.”
Timing Challenges and Market Positioning
Cadillac’s approach to the driver market is unique due to its late arrival. “The timing is a bit unusual,” Lowdon admitted. “We weren’t active during the last critical phase, so some drivers are already locked into contracts.”
Despite this, he remains optimistic. “Fortunately, there are many talented drivers available. Unfortunately, we couldn’t enter the market until our commitment was confirmed, but now it’s time to talk to potential candidates.”
When asked if there are standout drivers currently without a seat, Lowdon was clear: “Absolutely. We see some highly talented drivers who aren’t on the grid. My phone has been ringing non-stop. The challenge, as a new team, is that our timeline isn’t as established as others.”
With at least half a dozen strong contenders, Cadillac is now focused on building the best possible driver lineup.
An American Driver for Cadillac?
Given Cadillac’s American roots, could we see a U.S. driver in the team? “Personally, I don’t see why an American driver couldn’t be selected on merit,” Lowdon said.
“Fans would love to see it, and there’s no reason it couldn’t happen. Being American doesn’t mean you can’t be a great Formula 1 driver. We’re not building a team for the short term.”
Cadillac and its partners are committed to a long-term F1 project, and part of that includes developing future talent. “We’ve talked about improving opportunities for drivers, and we’re considering an academy program. So, if an American driver earns their place, there’s no reason they wouldn’t be in the team.”
Super Licence Hurdles for Colton Herta
One of the top American prospects, Colton Herta, is close to securing a Super Licence, a requirement to race in F1. He currently has 39 out of the 40 points needed and can complete the requirement by either running a 100km free practice session or finishing in the top four of this year’s IndyCar championship.
However, until he gets the final point, he remains a question mark. “If he doesn’t have the required points, that’s a clear obstacle. We can’t select a driver who doesn’t meet the criteria—that’s just the reality,” Lowdon explained.
That doesn’t mean Herta lacks talent. “Does not having a Super Licence change his ability to drive a car? Absolutely not. He’s incredibly talented, which is why we’re considering him alongside many other drivers.”
Cadillac acknowledges that Herta isn’t alone in this situation. “There will always be uncertainty with Super Licence points, but that’s the rule, and we have to respect it.”
Zhou’s Potential and No Favoritism
Beyond new prospects, Lowdon is also the manager of Guanyu Zhou, Ferrari’s reserve driver this season. While he praises Zhou’s skills, he assures there will be no favoritism in Cadillac’s driver selection.
“Zhou has done an outstanding job in tough conditions over the past two years. The advantage for me is that I’ve seen his abilities firsthand, so he doesn’t need to explain himself.”
However, Cadillac remains committed to a fair selection process. “There are checks and balances in place. There’s no favoritism toward Zhou or any other driver we’ve worked with. We’re here to do our job and pick the best drivers on merit.”
With the 2026 season still ahead, Cadillac F1 is taking its time to find the right talent. One thing is clear: the driver lineup will be built for success, not just for the headlines.
- Discover More>2025 Title Fight: Hamilton’s Big Bet with Ferrari
- Follow us on >Facebook and >Twitter for F1 updates
Cadillac F1 Hunts for Talent in 2026 Driver Market Cadillac F1 Hunts for Talent in 2026 Driver Market Cadillac F1 Hunts for Talent in 2026 Driver Market
