Nothing signed with Perez, and not necessarily an American in 2026

Cadillac will make its big start in Formula 1 next year but for the moment, the identity of its pilots remains uncertain. The American stable is not “Not in a hurry” To make announcements and, although its ambition is to align at least one American pilot, it will only do so if the suitable profile arises.

The structure mounted by General Motors will join the grid as 11th stable in 2026 and continues to move forward in the design of its single -seater, while working on its own power unit for 2029. In the middle of these preparations, the choice of pilots is a lot of talk, especially since the name of Sergio Pérez returns with more and more insistence. Director of TWG Motorsports, a company that participates in the Cadillac project, Dan Towriss assures that nothing is signed.

“The most important thing is that we are not in a hurry to choose a pilot”he assured before the press in Miami’s paddock. “Many elements come into play in the choice of a Formula 1 pilot. We take our time. The list obviously includes certain names that many evoke. Even if, I must admit, it amuses me to wake up in the morning and read that we would be in the final phase of negotiations.”

What Dan Towriss does not deny is that it will be essential for Cadillac to have a pilot duo capable of helping to build a stable that will have everything to discover. As such, pure performance will therefore not be the only selection criterion.

“Performance is obviously important, but experience is just as much”he said. “This is a new stable, and the technical returns concerning the car will be decisive. There is not only what is happening on the track, there is also the simulator to take into account. There are many aspects to consider.”

“Fortunately, with Graeme [Lowdon, directeur de l’équipe]Eric Warren [directeur exécutif de GM Motorsports] And others, we bring together as much information as possible to show the greatest rigor in our process. We take the time necessary to make the right choice. Many discussions are underway, and the interest around this team is real. We are very grateful. “

The will of an unrealistic American pilot?

If the experience mentioned leads to a Sergio Pérez who should make his decision at the time of the month, the question of the commitment of an American pilot is also under study. Cadillac has continued to display its intention to check this box and shape a very “US” identity, the name of Colton Herta being regularly cited, but reality could also catch up with its leaders, even if it means repelling this ambition.

“I would formulate it as follows: we are determined to have an American pilot”replied Dan Towriss. “It is important for all of us to do it properly. This is the key point: it is not necessarily for next year. It could be, but it is not a constraint. What matters is that it is done correctly, with the right person and at the right time. It is not a stroke of com ‘to simply place someone in a tub. What matters to us is that he can succeed.”

“We want this pilot to be put in the best conditions to succeed, and that this tub is respected when an American pilot will integrate the stable. We are therefore defining this process. It is a commitment from us and we will find the right time as well as the right way to bring the right pilot [américain] and Formula 1. “

Interview by Mark Mann-Bryans