In a remarkable development for the world of Formula 1, Cadillac’s new racing team has achieved a significant milestone by conducting the first-ever laps on the track with their Ferrari-powered car for the upcoming 2026 season at Silverstone. This inaugural track run not only sets the stage for the team’s aspirations but also reinforces the excitement surrounding the 2026 regulations in Formula 1.
The commitment and ambition of the Cadillac team, which is backed by General Motors, were on full display during a shakedown session held at Silverstone on Friday. This event marked a historic moment for the team as they initiated their journey into the highly competitive realm of F1. A brief video shared on social media provided glimpses of their new car as it gracefully navigated down the pit straight, turning heads despite the challenging damp conditions.
The significance of this shakedown extends beyond Cadillac; it’s also the inaugural outing for Ferrari’s newly developed 2026 engine, specifically tailored to meet the revisions in the sport’s regulations. This dual-purpose event not only enables Cadillac to assess their vehicle’s performance but also allows Ferrari to showcase their latest engineering innovations on the track for the first time.
Cadillac joins an exclusive club as only the second team to successfully complete a shakedown ahead of the pre-season tests set to take place in Barcelona between January 26 and January 30. This follows a similar achievement by the newly rebranded Audi team, which ran their latest F1 challenger at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya just a week prior, amplifying the competitive atmosphere among new entrants.
The occasion was made even more thrilling by the recent involvement of Zhou Guanyu, who has signed on as the team’s reserve driver. In a prior social media clip filmed at the Cadillac garage at Silverstone, he shared his reflections on this momentous day, highlighting the excitement and potential that lies ahead for the team as they embark on their journey.
Cadillac’s driver lineup is particularly noteworthy, featuring two highly experienced racers: Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez. Both drivers have earned their stripes in Formula 1, enjoying a wealth of race-winning experience, and are making a return to the grid after a brief hiatus last season. Their veteran presence is poised to provide invaluable insights and leadership as the team navigates the challenges of their debut year.
Adding to the allure of their entry, Cadillac recently unveiled a special testing livery for their car, aimed at the upcoming Barcelona test. The design features a strikingly understated carbon fiber finish, prominently showcasing the Cadillac logo on the rear. In a nod to the foundation of the team, the names of its founders are subtly inscribed across the chassis, symbolizing the ambitious vision and dedication that drives the team forward.
Excitement is building as Cadillac prepares to reveal its final livery, which will grace the car during the last two testing events in Bahrain and throughout the 2026 racing season. This highly anticipated unveiling is scheduled to coincide with the Super Bowl on February 8, promising to captivate not only motor racing enthusiasts but also a broader audience.
By entering the Formula 1 landscape, Cadillac has officially become the 11th team on the grid and the first new addition since the Haas team made its debut back in 2016. With a clear vision and a competitive spirit, all eyes will be on Cadillac as they seek to establish themselves in a thrilling and dynamic sport, capturing the attention and admiration of fans and competitors alike.
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