“We made history”: Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas react to Cadillac’s 2026 shakedown. Cadillac completes its first Formula 1 kilometers at Silverstone.

The new team completes its first kilometers at Silverstone

Cadillac has successfully completed the first kilometers of its Formula 1 history at Silverstone. The eleventh team set to enter F1 later this season carried out a filming day to ensure everything was working correctly ahead of the late-January tests in Barcelona. From Monday January 26 to Friday January 30, each team will have three of the five available days to rack up mileage in preparation for the official pre-season tests in Bahrain, scheduled for February 11–13 and February 18–20.

The driver given the honor of baptizing Cadillac on track was Sergio Perez: “It was truly a fantastic day,” said Checo. “Everyone should feel incredibly proud to have completed our first laps as a team. Each of us has worked hard to reach this moment, and it was exciting to be part of motorsport history. We can and should enjoy this moment, but it has really energized me for the future. I just want to get back on track and put in the miles: this is only the beginning.”

“As a team, we have written history,” added Valtteri Bottas. “Checo completed the first laps with a car that worked perfectly. I’m proud of the entire team for reaching this point, which is truly impressive. It was special to be part of this moment and to witness the joy of everyone involved.”

Cadillac ran a completely black livery for the occasion. The official livery for the 2026 Formula 1 season will be unveiled on February 8, with a promotional spot set to be broadcast during the Super Bowl.

The successful shakedown at Silverstone marks a flawless start for Cadillac as they prepare to take on the established giants of Formula 1. With veterans Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas reporting a smooth first run, the team enters the Barcelona testing window with a boost of confidence that is rare for an expansion entry. As the “all-black” interim look gives way to a grand Super Bowl reveal, Cadillac is clearly blending technical preparation with a marketing masterclass, ensuring that their 2026 debut is one of the most talked-about events in recent F1 history.