Cadillac is getting ready to officially begin its Formula 1 project. In preparation for its highly anticipated debut in the 2026 Formula 1 season, the American team will soon take to the track with a Ferrari from a previous season.
The debut of Cadillac in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship is now only a few months away. Starting in 2026, the American outfit will compete using Ferrari power units—a decision announced several months ago, which will allow the General Motors-owned team to work closely with one of the top teams on the grid, Scuderia Ferrari. This technical collaboration marks a significant step for Cadillac as it enters the elite world of Formula 1.
Cadillac ready to hit the track with the Ferrari SF-23
According to reports published by the German outlet Auto Motor und Sport (AMuS), Cadillac is currently preparing for its first on-track test session, which will serve as an important opportunity to familiarize the team with the various procedures and operations required during a Grand Prix weekend. To carry out this initial phase of testing, Cadillac is expected to use the Ferrari SF-23, the Formula 1 car raced by Scuderia Ferrari during the 2023 season and with which Spanish driver Carlos Sainz achieved victory at the Singapore Grand Prix.
These initial practice sessions, which could begin shortly after the summer break, will offer Cadillac’s technical and operational personnel a chance to gain valuable hands-on experience. The team will use this opportunity to rehearse essential aspects of Formula 1 race weekends, such as pit stops and general procedural routines, during what will be the team’s very first laps on a real Formula 1 circuit. Up until now, Cadillac’s preparation has taken place exclusively through virtual simulations, with engineers and strategists running race scenarios starting from the 2024 Spanish Grand Prix onward to build experience.
A surprising virtual pole position—caused by a simulation error
Interestingly, the early stages of Cadillac’s simulation program included a curious and unexpected result. During one of the initial virtual testing sessions, conducted using current Formula 1 regulations as a framework, it appeared that Cadillac’s simulated car managed to secure a pole position on the starting grid—a result that naturally raised eyebrows.
However, according to an insider source, this impressive achievement was ultimately due to a technical mistake within the simulation parameters. Specifically, incorrect grip values were used for the tires, which led to artificially inflated performance and distorted results. The team has since clarified that these data issues will be corrected before upcoming sessions, acknowledging that the real challenges of Formula 1 competition will be far more complex than what the simulation error might have suggested.
Driver lineup still under discussion as 2026 approaches
In parallel with the technical preparations, Cadillac’s management continues to hold discussions regarding the team’s future driver lineup. According to paddock rumors and insider reports, Mexican driver Sergio Perez appears to be on the verge of being announced as the team’s lead driver for 2026. Meanwhile, German driver Mick Schumacher and Finnish veteran Valtteri Bottas are reportedly among the primary candidates being evaluated for the second seat.
As Cadillac moves closer to its first appearance on the Formula 1 grid, combining the technological expertise of General Motors with the racing heritage of Ferrari could prove to be one of the most intriguing storylines of the 2026 season. The path will be challenging, but the foundation is being laid step by step.
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