The American team’s announcement brings two seasoned race winners back into competition and adds experience to a grid undergoing significant change.

Pérez, 35, returns after a year away from a full-time seat following his departure from Red Bull, bringing over a decade of F1 experience, including multiple Grand Prix victories. Bottas, also 35, comes back after a season as Mercedes’ reserve driver, the Finn having last raced full-time in 2024 with Alfa Romeo/Sauber.

For Cadillac, the duo’s depth of experience – not just as drivers but also as drivers with experience racing for grand prix-winning teams – will be valuable as the new outfit navigates the challenges of its first season, with both drivers expected to play key roles in shaping the team’s development and competitive strategy.

Their return also adds depth to the 2026 grid as Formula One enters a new technical era, with the sport’s expanded field and revised regulations set to test every team’s readiness and adaptability.