Valtteri Bottas Visits Cadillac F1 HQ for First Time: Seat Fitting & New Era Begins

The Finnish driver, fresh from his role as Mercedes’ reserve in 2025, completed his initial seat fitting and integration work with the team, marking a significant step as Cadillac prepares for its F1 debut in 2026. Bottas, a veteran of 246 Grand Prix starts and 67 podium finishes, signed with Cadillac after spending the 2025 season on the sidelines.

Seat Fitting and Team Integration

The seat fitting process is a crucial first step for any F1 driver joining a new team. Bottas’ visit included not only the molding of his custom seat but also meetings with engineers and early reviews of 2026 development data.

“It’s important to get the preparations right, as these are the first steps to get us ready for the first test.”
— Valtteri Bottas

Team principal Graeme Lowdon emphasized the significance of Bottas’ early integration: “It’s great to finally have Valtteri onboard and integrated with the team. We’ve been planning for quite some time now, so it’s fantastic to see these moments happening ahead of our first season on track.”

Cadillac’s Ambitious F1 Project

Cadillac, backed by General Motors, is set to become the 11th team on the F1 grid in 2026, joining forces with experienced drivers Bottas and Sergio Perez. The team has already conducted operational tests, borrowing a Ferrari SF-23 for a private session at Imola, to prepare for its maiden campaign.

Bottas’ arrival at Silverstone follows Perez’s early start with the team. The duo’s combined experience—over 500 F1 race starts—will be vital as Cadillac aims to establish itself as a competitive force in the sport.

Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond

With the 2026 season introducing new technical regulations, Cadillac’s entry is highly anticipated. The team’s livery will be revealed during the Super Bowl, one of the most-watched events in the world, underscoring the brand’s ambition to make a bold statement in F1.

Bottas, known for his professionalism and racecraft, is eager to contribute to the team’s growth: “I’m excited to be starting as a Cadillac Formula 1 Team driver finally. This is a proud moment in my career as it marks the beginning of a new chapter back on the grid.”

Conclusion

Valtteri Bottas’ first visit to Cadillac F1’s Silverstone base is more than a formality—it’s the beginning of a new adventure for both the driver and the team. As the countdown to 2026 continues, all eyes will be on how this ambitious project unfolds on the world’s biggest racing stage.