The Cadillac F1 team's journey to the 2026 season grid is already a saga of passion, ambition, and remarkable dedication, as veteran driver Valtteri Bottas candidly reveals the emotional investment behind their formidable project.
Key Points:
- Valtteri Bottas's talks with Cadillac F1 began over three years ago, showcasing long-term commitment.
- The team, backed by General Motors, has rapidly expanded, boasting global facilities in both the US and England.
- Bottas describes an overwhelmingly emotional culture, with staff reportedly 'crying' when the development car first ran.
- Cadillac F1 has already made a public splash, unveiling its livery during the Super Bowl halftime show.
The Long Road to the Grid: Bottas's Cadillac Commitment
It’s clear this isn't just another contract for Valtteri Bottas. The Finnish racer, confirmed alongside Sergio Perez for Cadillac F1's maiden 2026 season, has been deeply intertwined with the team's aspirations for years. He recently disclosed that his initial discussions with Graeme Lowdon, a key figure in the project, started over three years ago, long before the team even secured its official Formula 1 entry.
"Bit more than three years ago was the first talks before the team had actually confirmation that there will be in F1," Bottas shared. This early engagement highlights a profound belief in the project, a loyalty that solidified into a firm resolve. By early 2025, Cadillac F1 became his absolute priority, a testament to the vision and potential he saw in the ambitious American outfit.
Building a Powerhouse: The Team's Rapid Ascent
The team's growth has been nothing short of meteoric since officially joining the ranks this year. Under the powerful umbrella of General Motors, Cadillac F1 has aggressively expanded its operations, recruiting top talent and establishing impressive facilities across both the United States and England. This global footprint underscores the serious intent behind their entry into the pinnacle of motorsport.
Bottas expressed genuine surprise at the team's advanced state, especially considering the hurdles and the late confirmation of their Formula 1 bid. "The team is hiring all the time. The team is growing all the time. The factory is growing. They're building more facilities in the US. They are pretty serious about this. They're not here for fun," he affirmed.
Heart and Soul: The Emotional Core of Cadillac F1
Perhaps the most striking revelation from Bottas pertains to the raw emotion driving the Cadillac F1 project. This isn't just a corporate venture; it's a dream being forged by individuals pouring their entire being into its success. The passion reached an incredible peak during a crucial developmental milestone.
Bottas recounted a powerful scene: "It was a rush to get the car ready and how much it actually meant to all the people to have the car running. Like there was people crying when the car ran for the first time." This profound emotional response speaks volumes about the dedication and personal investment from every member of the team.
A Serious Contender Emerges
This level of emotional commitment, combined with General Motors' significant backing and Cadillac F1's aggressive expansion, heralds the arrival of a truly formidable challenger. As the wider F1 world geared up for Bahrain testing, Cadillac made its grand public debut, revealing its livery to a global audience during the Super Bowl halftime show. The message is clear: Cadillac F1 is not just joining the grid; they're here to make an indelible mark.
