Cadillac Makes F1 History: Sergio Pérez Drives Team’s First Ever Laps at Silverstone Ahead of 2026 Debut

The Cadillac Formula 1 Team has taken its maiden step into motorsport history by completing the first on-track laps of its 2026 car at the iconic Silverstone Circuit in England. The shakedown session saw Mexican driver Sergio Pérez behind the wheel during a promotional filming day, marking a major milestone for the American outfit as it builds toward its inaugural season on the Formula 1 grid.

The car emerged from the garage in an all-black livery — a temporary paint scheme ahead of the team’s official 2026 design reveal scheduled for February 8 during a globally broadcast event tied to the Super Bowl. Over the Silverstone day, Cadillac was able to run up to the maximum 200 km permitted for filming sessions, allowing engineers to verify basic systems and capture footage of the car in action before pre-season testing in Barcelona later this month.

Team CEO Dan Towriss hailed the moment as a “significant step” in the team’s journey, emphasizing the pride shared across the squad as the car rolled out for its first laps. Team Principal Graeme Lowdon echoed that sentiment, highlighting the progress made in a relatively short time and the opportunity to work together in a live garage environment — an essential precursor to the demanding run-up to the 2026 season.

Pérez, who returns to the grid in 2026 after a year out following his departure from Red Bull, described the experience as “emotional” and said the day left him even more motivated for the championship ahead. His team-mate Valtteri Bottas — also part of Cadillac’s driver lineup for the debut campaign — celebrated the achievement, noting the team’s pride at seeing the car operate smoothly and expressing confidence as preparations continue.

The Silverstone shakedown not only marks Cadillac’s first physical track activity but also gives an early indication of the logistical and technical foundations the team has laid as it prepares to challenge established F1 competitors. With official tests looming and the season opener still months away, the American operation’s first laps symbolize both the culmination of years of planning and the start of an ambitious new chapter in Formula 1.

Photo: Cadillac Communications

Photo: Cadillac Communications

Photo: Cadillac Communications