The new Formula 1 team of Cadillac has revealed that it initially leaned towards young talent before it teamed up with Sergio Pérez. The former Red Bull driver will make his comeback next year – alongside Valtteri Bottas – at the American racing team. CEO Dan Towriss revealed during the race weekend in Monza that Bottas was actually supposed to be paired with an inexperienced driver, but Pérez left the Cadillac top brass astounded in a ‘perfect meeting’.
From the beginning of 2025, it was quite clear that Valtteri Bottas was in contention for a seat at Cadillac. However, the Americans also said they were looking for young and preferably American talent. Yet, at the end of August, it was announced that the team had contracted two ‘veterans’; Sergio Pérez also secured a spot at Cadillac. During the third free practice for the GP of Italy, Dan Towriss explained how Cadillac initially aimed for a young driver, before the crucial meeting with Pérez.
‘Cherry on the Cake’
Speaking to Sky Sports, Towriss reconstructed the conversation with Checo. “Was he willing to race again?” said the American. “Where was he in his career? What were his ambitions? Was he excited about the project, and what did he still want to achieve? What did he still have to prove in his career? During that meeting, we really saw how experienced Pérez was. He was actually just the cherry on the cake and left very enthusiastic about his candidacy.””We initially considered a younger driver,” admitted Towriss. “But Pérez was fantastic, and his experience truly sets him apart from those who have never sat in a Formula 1 seat,” concluded the enthusiastic Cadillac executive. By signing the Mexican driver, several ‘youngsters’ missed out. Mick Schumacher, for instance, had reportedly had productive discussions with the team. Former Formula 2 champion Felipe Drugovich and IndyCar driver Colton Herta also missed out, although the latter has since been given a role as a reserve driver for the Americans.
Cadillac CEO Dan Towriss and team boss Graeme Lowdon in Monza.
