- Cadillac was expected to be a long way behind the rest of the grid.
- Bottas and Perez’ experience a big help in settling into the F1 paddock.
- A hope within the team that they can beat Aston Martin in the standings.
Cadillac off to a decent start
When Cadillac announced that they would join the 2026 F1 grid, many immediately suggested that the American team will be placed firmly at the bottom for the entire season. For most, this was the most likely outcome. When a team joins the F1 grid, they need time to adjust and cement themselves in the sport.
Instead of P21 and P22, Cadillac have been hovering above rock bottom. While they are struggling to make real headway, they have for the most part, been consistently above Aston Martin (except for the Chinese GP sprint). This unexpected, somewhat positive start to the season may help them build on their future.
Cadillac’s 2026 results so far
| Grand Prix | Valtteri Bottas Finish | Sergio Perez Finish |
| Australia | DNF | P16 |
| China | P13 | P15 |
| Japan | P19 | P17 |
Some points to highlight from these results:
- Bottas’ P13 in China was a big moment for the team, placing them in the midfield, on the outskirts of the points.
- Though Japan was not as successful as China, the team could take solace in finishing above a Williams and both Aston Martins.
Why Cadillac is not plum last in the standings
The pairing of Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas gives Cadillac the stability the need to find their feet. With a mixture of experience and youth, Cadillac would have been under more pressure than they are now. The F1 veterans, who have a combined 500+ starts, remove that pressure because because their experience carries them through the season and they are more reliable.
Any opportunity presented their way to snatch much-desired points, will surely be taken up. Both Perez and Bottas, before joining stronger teams, had plenty of experience extracting the most out of slower cars. They can surely do it again here.
The Ferrari-powered engine Cadillac run is also a big bonus. While General Motors work on creating its own engine for Cadillac F1 Team, this engine they are using seems strong. They also currently don’t have to worry too much about engine reliability, which is certainly a relief. Other than Bottas’ fuel system issue in Australia, the engine seems quite reliable.
The battle at the bottom: Cadillac v Aston Martin
,Cadillac’s closest competitors are Aston Martin. The British team has regressed severely. With the arrival of Adrian Newey, the team were hopeful, but their partnership with Honda looks like its off to a rough start. It may be a surprise to Aston Martin, finding themselves in direct competition with newcomers Cadillac, but it is a surprise they will have to survive; or serious questions will be asked.
For Cadillac, their main aim will be to keep up with Aston Martin, and beat them. If they can do that, then it would be classed as a successful entry season into F1.
