Valtteri Bottas is reportedly closing in on a full-time return to Formula 1, with Cadillac eyeing the Finnish driver as a leading candidate for its debut season in 2026. Representatives from the American manufacturer, including Team Principal Graeme Lowdon and TWG Group head Dan Towriss, are set to attend the British Grand Prix next month to finalize discussions with potential drivers. Bottas, currently serving as Mercedes’ reserve driver, is understood to be at the top of their list.
Cadillac, which will join the F1 grid next season, aims to secure its first driver before the summer break, with talks for the second seat potentially extending into September. Bottas’ name has gained traction in recent weeks, and his desire to return to full-time racing after being dropped by Sauber at the end of last season aligns with Cadillac’s ambitions. The 45-time podium finisher has remained active in the sport, impressing Cadillac’s leadership with his continued involvement and strategic experience.
Adding fuel to the speculation, Bottas recently posted a cryptic video on social media featuring a Cadillac SUV. In the clip, he comments on the vehicle’s two empty seats, teasingly saying, “Not yet,” when invited to sit down. The post is widely interpreted as a playful nod to ongoing negotiations.
Cadillac’s Driver Options: Bottas, Perez, and Drugovich in the Mix
While Bottas is a strong contender, Cadillac’s decision hinges on whether they opt for two experienced drivers or pair a veteran with a younger talent. Sergio Perez, who was once considered the frontrunner, remains in contention and could potentially team up with Bottas if Cadillac chooses an all-experienced lineup. However, Perez’s absence from recent discussions has opened the door for other candidates.
If Cadillac decides to pair experience with youth, Felipe Drugovich is reportedly the leading choice for the second seat. The Brazilian, who has been Aston Martin’s reserve driver since winning the FIA Formula 2 title in 2022, is eager to secure a full-time F1 seat. Despite limited opportunities at Aston Martin, Drugovich has shown promise during FP1 outings and is now seen as a realistic option for Cadillac.
Other names in the mix include Mick Schumacher and Zhou Guanyu. Schumacher, who last raced in F1 with Haas in 2022, is currently competing in the World Endurance Championship with Alpine. Zhou, meanwhile, has taken on a reserve role with Ferrari after being dropped by Sauber at the end of 2024.
Cadillac’s entry into Formula 1 marks a significant milestone for the sport, and the team is determined to make a strong impression. Securing a driver lineup that balances experience and potential is a critical step in their preparations. With Bottas leading the charge and a pool of talented candidates vying for the second seat, the team is poised to make waves in its debut season.
As negotiations continue, all eyes will be on the British Grand Prix, where Cadillac’s leadership will meet with driver representatives to finalize their plans. Whether Bottas, Perez, Drugovich, or another contender joins the team, Cadillac’s arrival promises to add excitement and intrigue to the F1 grid in 2026.