NEW DELHI: Cadillac F1 will enter the Formula 1 grid in the 2026 season. Team principal Graeme Lowdon has made it clear that the team will select its drivers strictly on merit. He believes Formula 1 is no place for experiments. Itโs a highly competitive environment where only the best should compete.
โWe will definitely select on merit,โ Lowdon says โF1 is not a playground. This is the pinnacle of world motorsport, so, for sure, we need to select drivers on merit.โ
Although the team has yet to confirm its driver lineup, many talented drivers are available across junior and other racing series. Lowdon stressed that Cadillac F1 will carefully evaluate all options before making a decision.
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Cadillac F1 Evaluating Top Candidates
Lowdon is optimistic about finding strong drivers who can deliver consistent performances. However, he acknowledged that the team was unable to engage in driver negotiations until their official entry was confirmed. Now that they are officially on the 2026 grid, they can start serious discussions with potential candidates.
โLuckily for us, there are many good drivers out there,โ Lowdon said. He explained that they couldnโt enter the driver market until their entry was confirmed, making it too early to discuss specifics. Now that the entry is official, they can finally have meaningful conversations. Lowdon emphasized their focus on selecting drivers who can contribute to the overall programme.
One key aspect of Cadillac F1โs driver selection process is the possibility of signing an American driver. The last American to race in Formula 1 was Logan Sargeant, who drove for Williams Racing. However, due to inconsistent performances, Williams dropped him mid-season last year.
Colton Herta Among the Possible Choices
One of the names being considered for Cadillac F1 is Colton Herta. He was previously linked to an F1 seat but failed to obtain the necessary FIA Super License. While he is still ineligible, he could earn enough points to qualify before the 2026 season, making him a potential candidate for the team.
โThere are easily half a dozen, if not more, candidates out there who offer extremely good credentials to be in Formula 1 or to be in Formula 1 again,โ Lowdon stated.
Speaking about Herta, Lowdon acknowledged his talent but pointed out that he still needs to meet the licensing requirements.
โHeโs an incredibly talented driver. So, for sure, itโs not shock news that we would be looking to consider Colton alongside a whole bunch of other drivers as well,โ Lowdon said.
Cadillac F1 is backed by TWG Motorsports and General Motors (GM). Their entry comes at a time when Formula 1 is set for a major regulation overhaul in 2026.
With every team adapting to new rules, Cadillac F1 will have an opportunity to catch up with established competitors. However, experience will still play a crucial role in determining performance on the track.
As Cadillac F1 prepares for its debut, the team will focus on building a strong foundation, selecting the right drivers, and ensuring they are competitive from the start.
