Cadillac’s Bold Entry into Formula 1: Who Will Take the Last Two Seats?

The announcement that General Motors and Cadillac will join Formula 1 as the sport’s 11th team has sent waves of excitement through the motorsport community. With the 2026 season poised to feature 22 drivers on the grid, attention now turns to the critical question of who will fill the two coveted seats. Under the guidance of Cadillac’s director Mario Andretti, the team has made its priorities clear: an experienced driver and a young American talent. But with a surplus of capable drivers vying for these slots, the decision promises to be anything but straightforward.

One name firmly in the mix is Mick Schumacher. The German driver, who spent two seasons with Haas before transitioning to a reserve role with Mercedes, has gained praise from Toto Wolff for his simulator work. Although Audi recently passed on Schumacher for their 2026 lineup, his blend of youth and experience might make him an attractive option for Cadillac. As the son of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, Mick’s name carries a legacy that could draw significant sponsorship and attention, particularly as Cadillac looks to expand its influence in the European market.

Meanwhile, Daniel Ricciardo and Valtteri Bottas, both seasoned Formula 1 veterans, are also under consideration. Ricciardo’s charismatic persona and race-winning pedigree make him a compelling choice, especially given his popularity in the United States. Bottas, known for his reliability and contributions to Mercedes’ dominant era, brings a steady hand and technical expertise that could benefit a brand-new team. Both drivers, however, face challenges. Ricciardo’s recent struggles with McLaren and Bottas’s departure from Alfa Romeo might raise questions about their current form.

Colton Herta, a star of the American motorsport scene, appears to be the frontrunner for the team’s American driver slot. Herta’s talent and familiarity with U.S. fans make him a natural fit for Cadillac’s vision. Though Herta’s initial attempt to secure a Formula 1 seat in 2022 was thwarted by super license restrictions, four years of additional racing experience could strengthen his case. As Andretti himself noted, “It’s fair to say that IndyCar isn’t at the Formula 1 level, but there’s talent there that deserves a chance.”

Andretti’s strategy reflects a balance between competitive performance and marketability. An experienced European driver like Schumacher or Bottas could provide the team with much-needed stability during its inaugural season. Pairing such a driver with an American rising star like Herta aligns with Cadillac’s goal of establishing a strong foothold in both the U.S. and European markets.

Further complicating the decision are Cadillac’s technical and strategic alliances. Initially planning to use Ferrari engines through 2028, the team’s temporary collaboration with the Maranello outfit could influence its driver selection. Ferrari’s support might favor a European driver, though Andretti’s longstanding relationship with Ferrari positions Cadillac to negotiate favorable terms.

While the final lineup remains undecided, Andretti has expressed confidence in Cadillac’s ability to succeed. “General Motors is a huge corporation, and whatever they tackle will work in the end,” he said, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to long-term growth. With Cadillac’s entry set to increase the number of available Formula 1 seats by 10%, the move is also seen as a boon for young drivers seeking opportunities in the sport.

As speculation builds, one thing is clear: Cadillac’s arrival in Formula 1 represents a transformative moment for the sport. With a well-thought-out approach to driver selection, coupled with strong financial backing and technical partnerships, the American automaker aims to establish itself as a formidable contender on the grid. Whether it’s Mick Schumacher, Colton Herta, or another star waiting in the wings, the team’s choices will shape its competitive debut and set the tone for its future in Formula 1.

Fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting further announcements as Cadillac gears up for its much-anticipated entry in 2026. Until then, the question remains: who will take the wheel for this groundbreaking team?