Cadillac’s driver market considerations have been shaped by the timing of their entry confirmation, which came after most 2025 F1 seats were locked in with multi-year deals.
This has left them targeting free agents, drivers nearing the end of contracts, and standout talents from outside F1.
Here are the leading contenders based on current speculation and Lowdon’s comments:
1. Colton Herta
The 24-year-old IndyCar star has been a name synonymous with Cadillac’s F1 project since its early days under the Andretti banner. Herta, who finished runner-up in the 2024 IndyCar Series, brings raw speed and a strong American identity that aligns with Cadillac’s U.S.-centric branding.
His F1 credentials include a promising test with McLaren in 2022, where Team Principal Andrea Stella praised his ability. However, Herta’s biggest hurdle is securing an FIA Super Licence. He currently holds 31 points and needs 40 to qualify for F1.
A top-four finish in the 2025 IndyCar championship—or a strong season paired with Free Practice 1 (FP1) outings—could get him over the line by 2026.
Lowdon has acknowledged Herta’s talent, saying, “He’s an incredibly talented driver… It’s not shock news that we would be looking to consider Colton alongside a whole bunch of other drivers.”
2. Valtteri Bottas
With 10 Grand Prix wins and five Constructors’ Championships from his time at Mercedes, the 35-year-old Finn offers a wealth of experience that could stabilize Cadillac’s debut.
After a challenging stint at Sauber (2022–2024), where he scored no points in 2024 due to an uncompetitive car, Bottas returned to Mercedes as a reserve driver for 2025.
His familiarity with top-tier F1 operations and his hunger to return to racing—evidenced by reported talks with Lowdon—make him a strong candidate.
3. Zhou Guanyu
The 25-year-old Chinese driver, who raced for Sauber from 2022 to 2024, brings three years of F1 experience and a personal connection to Lowdon, who previously managed him.
Zhou’s standout moment came in Qatar 2024, where he scored Sauber’s only points of the season with a gritty eighth-place finish. After losing his race seat, Zhou secured a reserve role at Ferrari for 2025—conveniently, the team supplying Cadillac’s power units in 2026.
His youth, F1 mileage, and potential to attract sponsorship from China make him a compelling choice. Lowdon has praised Zhou’s ability under tough circumstances, noting, “There’s some really good ones out there, Zhou included,” while insisting no favoritism will influence the decision.
4. Sergio Perez
The Mexican driver, a veteran of over 200 Grands Prix with 6 wins, is another experienced option.
After a difficult 2023–2024 stint at Red Bull, where he struggled to match teammate Max Verstappen, Pérez’s future remains uncertain as his contract nears its end.
There's also strong rumors going around the paddock that Checo is already negociating with Cadillac for a 2026 seat.