Cadillac's highly anticipated arrival in Formula 1 for the 2026 season is poised to commence with an intriguing collaboration: their initial track endeavors will likely involve machinery from Ferrari. Given the constraints of Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) regulations, which mandate the use of vehicles at least two years old, Cadillac, as a burgeoning F1 entrant, finds itself in a unique position. This strategic alliance with the Italian powerhouse is particularly sensible, as Ferrari is set to supply engines to Cadillac for their initial three seasons, facilitating a seamless transition and invaluable learning experience. This preparatory phase is critical for the new team and its recently announced drivers, Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, as they aim to establish a competitive presence from day one in the demanding world of Formula 1 racing. The move underscores the pragmatic approach Cadillac is adopting to ensure a strong foundation for its F1 ambitions, leveraging existing partnerships to overcome logistical hurdles.
The irony is palpable: the American automotive giant, Cadillac, embarking on its ambitious Formula 1 journey, will likely conduct its preliminary track sessions in a Ferrari SF-23. This revelation comes from team principal Graeme Lowdon, who confirmed Cadillac's intention to leverage a rival team for its Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) initiatives in preparation for their 2026 championship debut. Ferrari stands out as the most logical choice, primarily because of its existing engine supply agreement with Cadillac, which will see Ferrari power Cadillac's F1 cars until 2029, at which point Cadillac plans to develop its own power units. This arrangement not only adheres to F1 regulations, which permit new teams up to 20 days of testing in machinery that is at least two seasons old, but also offers a practical synergy between the two entities.
For Cadillac, a completely new entity on the Formula 1 grid, the challenge is clear: without an existing car, they cannot conduct self-testing. Hence, relying on a seasoned competitor like Ferrari becomes an imperative. This strategic partnership ensures that Cadillac's newly signed drivers, Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, can gain crucial track time and familiarize themselves with F1 car dynamics. Perez, fresh from his departure from Red Bull, has expressed keenness to return to the cockpit, emphasizing the importance of early driving opportunities. Bottas, with prior experience utilizing Ferrari power units during his tenure with Kick Sauber, also brings valuable insights to the team. The technical advantages of learning within the same chassis framework that will eventually house their future Ferrari-supplied power unit are undeniable, providing a coherent learning curve for the team and its personnel.
Beyond the practicalities of testing, this collaboration signifies a deeper technical partnership. Ferrari will not only provide testing vehicles but also serve as Cadillac's engine supplier for their first three seasons, making the current testing arrangement a natural extension of their technical alignment. Cadillac is meticulously preparing for its F1 entry by simulating complete race weekends, with their next virtual event scheduled for Monza. These simulations involve approximately 50 to 60 engineering personnel across their UK and US operations, all working towards ensuring Cadillac is ready to make an immediate impact as the 11th team in Formula 1. This thorough preparation, even if it begins on a Ferrari-covered track, highlights Cadillac's commitment to making a strong and successful foray into the pinnacle of motorsport.
Ultimately, Cadillac’s strategic choice to initiate its Formula 1 preparatory testing with Ferrari’s machinery, given their impending engine supply relationship, highlights a pragmatic and forward-thinking approach. This sensible alliance provides crucial track experience for their drivers and engineering teams, laying a solid foundation for their 2026 debut while complying with regulatory requirements. It is a testament to their dedication to entering F1 on a competitive footing, embracing collaboration to pave the way for future success.