The Countdown Begins: Sergio Perez Set for First Cadillac F1 Test

The Formula 1 grid is set to welcome a major new player in 2026 with the arrival of Cadillac, and the team’s preparations are already well underway. In a significant announcement, veteran driver Sergio Perez has officially confirmed that he will be conducting his first test with the new team very soon. This marks a pivotal moment for both the driver and the fledgling American outfit, as they begin the critical process of building their new identity on the global motorsport stage. After his departure from Red Bull, this opportunity represents a fresh start for Sergio Perez and a chance to lead a new project from its inception.

A Veteran Partnership for a New Era

The confirmation of Sergio Perez‘s test is a key milestone in the formation of Cadillac’s inaugural Formula 1 campaign. The Mexican driver will be a central figure in the team’s entry into the pinnacle of motorsport, partnering with fellow seasoned racer Valtteri Bottas. The duo brings a wealth of experience to the table, boasting a combined total of over 500 Grand Prix starts. This veteran partnership is a strategic move by Cadillac, providing a deep well of knowledge and expertise that will be invaluable as they navigate the complexities of building a new team from the ground up and adapting to the new technical regulations coming into play in 2026.

The Return to the Cockpit

For Sergio Perez, the upcoming test is not just about getting to know his new team; it’s about a physical and mental re-acclimatization to the immense demands of an F1 car. The driver revealed that he will be traveling to England next week to continue preparations for the upcoming season, with plans to get behind the wheel of an F1 car. He explained the importance of driving this year, particularly for his body to adapt again to the physical stresses, especially the intense strain on his neck. In addition to his time on the track, Perez also highlighted that he will be spending significant time in the simulator. These early test sessions and simulation work are crucial for laying the groundwork for a successful 2026 season and ensuring both driver and team are fully prepared for the challenges ahead.

The new Cadillac team has bases in both the United States and England, and Sergio Perez‘s immediate schedule reflects this international operation, featuring extensive travel between the two countries. This logistical challenge is just one of many that the team will face as it builds its infrastructure and prepares to compete against the established names in the sport.

The Cadillac-Ferrari Connection

The nature of Sergio Perez‘s upcoming test provides a key insight into the new team’s technical partnership. Cadillac will be a customer outfit of Ferrari, and as a result, the testing programme is anticipated to be conducted in an old Ferrari F1 car. This technical collaboration is a strategic move that will allow Cadillac to benefit from Ferrari’s extensive F1 experience and resources as they develop their own car for the future. While specific dates for the former Red Bull driver’s first test remain undisclosed, the confirmation that it is happening signals a clear step forward for the project. The journey for Sergio Perez and Cadillac F1 has now officially begun.

The next few months will be a crucial time for both Sergio Perez and the Cadillac team as they work tirelessly to get up to speed. This new partnership promises to be one of the most exciting storylines on the F1 grid, as a new manufacturer, led by an experienced driver, prepares to challenge the sport’s established order.

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