Mario Andretti, the 1978 Formula 1 champion and Cadillac F1 board member, has described drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez as a bit rusty in the team's debut 2026 season. Both drivers sat out at least one year before joining the new 11th team on the grid. Andretti shared these observations during a podcast appearance.
Cadillac entered Formula 1 in 2026 as the 11th team, pairing experienced drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez. Bottas, who previously raced for Mercedes and lost his Sauber seat at the end of 2024, served as a reserve driver for Mercedes in 2025. Perez, formerly with Red Bull, took a full year off from the championship that year. Speaking on the Drive to Wynn podcast, Andretti noted the drivers' adaptation challenges after their time away. 'To be honest with you, I think they’re both just a little bit rusty. They’ve both been out of the cockpit for at least one season,' he said. He added that with the new car package, they are proceeding cautiously to avoid unnecessary setbacks. Andretti highlighted feedback from the drivers about lacking downforce, particularly rear stability, and difficulties in optimizing the power unit, including battery charge management. He emphasized that these issues are not unique to Cadillac, stating, 'Outside of, say, Mercedes and Ferrari, it seems like everybody else is searching deeply how to really maximise their situation.' Cadillac currently holds 10th place in the constructors' standings. Andretti expressed sympathy for the drivers relearning throttle and chassis handling, saying, 'I’m almost happy that I’m on the sideline.' The team aims to progress through the season amid these early hurdles.