The driver from Guadalajara has visited the American and European facilities of the star-spangled team, confirming his full immersion in the ambitious Cadillac project.
Sergio Pérez, the Mexican driver with 14 Formula 1 seasons and 6 victories, signed a two-year contract with Cadillac F1 at the end of August. The new American team will join the grid as the eleventh team in 2026. After being released by Red Bull at the end of 2024, Pérez took a sabbatical in 2025 to recharge. Now, at 35, he is ready for a major comeback alongside veteran Valtteri Bottas, in a team aiming to make an impact despite being a newcomer.
Pérez’s visit to Silverstone: key details
Pérez’s visit to the Cadillac facility at Silverstone is part of an initial tour to familiarize himself with the team and its infrastructure. Before arriving in the UK, he visited the Charlotte headquarters, where he officially received his Cadillac credentials for 2026 and participated in strategic meetings with management. The journey then continued to Silverstone, the heart of British motorsport and the location of Cadillac’s European headquarters.
At Silverstone, Pérez explored workshops, simulation areas, and design departments. The facility, still a “work in progress,” is already operational for the development of the 2026 chassis. The team is focusing on aerodynamics, suspension, and integration of the Ferrari power unit.
He met engineers and technical staff, many with experience in other F1 teams, and observed the car construction process up close, discussing ongoing progress with the team.
Simulator sessions
Sergio Pérez spent several hours in the Silverstone simulator, a key step for aligning with engineers and starting work on car setup. He tested virtual configurations based on preliminary Cadillac data, focusing on adaptation to the 2026 aerodynamic rules, lighter and more agile cars with less downforce than the 2025 models.
These sessions were essential for gathering initial feedback and helping Pérez regain his rhythm after a year away from racing. He worked on racing lines, tire management, and adapting to simulated G-forces.
Meetings with the team
Pérez participated in meetings with team principal Graeme Lowdon and other key members. They discussed the team philosophy, inspired by projects like Manor, which started from scratch, and Haas, which used strategic partnerships to compete quickly.
He left a motivational message for the team: “It matters where we finish, not how we start,” reflecting Cadillac’s ambition to grow steadily without unrealistic pressure for the debut.
During the visit, Pérez shared his excitement, emphasizing his pride in representing Mexico and contributing to Cadillac’s American project. He said: “I want to enjoy the journey, but give my best every weekend. If I do that for 24 GPs, I will be happy.”
Preparation for track testing
The Silverstone visit was not just symbolic: it prepared Pérez for his first on-track test, scheduled for the following week. He will drive a 2023 Ferrari SF-23 at Silverstone as a Test Previous Car. This test is organized through Cadillac’s partnership with Ferrari, providing engine and logistical support. It will allow Pérez to regain confidence in an F1 car after his year off, working on reflexes, physical endurance, and steering sensitivity.
He will collect valuable data for Cadillac, testing components like suspension and aerodynamics that could be adapted to the 2026 car. The test will include multiple setup configurations to simulate race conditions and provide direct feedback.
Goals and expectations for Pérez and Bottas
Cadillac is not aiming to win immediately but to build a competitive team in the medium term. Pérez and Bottas, with their experience, will be crucial for technical feedback and guiding car development.
Pérez’s presence, loved in Mexico and with a global following, is a strategic move to attract sponsors and fans, particularly in North America. General Motors plans to leverage the “Checo effect” to promote the Cadillac brand.
The Mexican driver described his sabbatical as a period of personal growth, spending time with family and training to return in peak form. His desire to prove he can still compete at a high level is clear.
Pérez will soon return to Silverstone for the test with the Ferrari SF-23, a key moment to evaluate his form and collect valuable data. Cadillac will continue developing the car, with additional TPC tests planned in the coming months, possibly including Ferrari’s private Fiorano circuit.
In 2026, the initial goal will be to reach mid-field, with Pérez and Bottas using their experience to maximize the performance of a new car. Pérez’s Silverstone visit marked the start of his journey with Cadillac and the beginning of a crucial preparation phase for 2026. With his charisma, experience, and determination, the Guadalajara driver is the perfect face for this ambitious project. Cadillac, with GM support and Ferrari as the power unit supplier, is building something special, and Silverstone will be the stage for this American F1 revolution.
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