Graeme Lowdon of Cadillac expressed his satisfaction with Sergio Perez’s initial testing endeavors with the new Formula 1 team slated for 2026, noting the Mexican driver’s positive approach. He commented that Perez is “coming back into Formula 1 exhibiting precisely the right mindset”.
Perez piloted a 2023 Ferrari two weeks prior at Imola, a vehicle supplied by Ferrari to Cadillac—a power unit customer for 2026. This initiative aimed to prepare Cadillac’s trackside team for their inaugural racing season.
Over two days, Perez completed 183 laps in an unpainted SF-23. While the test, involving another team’s older car, held limited direct relevance, it marked Perez’s return to an F1 cockpit since his last race with Red Bull at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, roughly a year earlier.
The Imola test provided a valuable opportunity for Cadillac’s mechanics and engineers to gear up for 2026, while also allowing Perez to shake off any rust.
Team head Lowdon shared his observations about Perez, stating, “I could perceive genuine enthusiasm in Checo. I believe he’s rejoining Formula 1 showing exactly the right attitude. It’s a racer’s positive outlook.”
He added, “He remains a true racing driver, even after some time away from the car. It was encouraging to witness him in action.”
Sergio Perez, Cadillac Racing
Photo by: Jacopo Rava
Lowdon continued, “I was curious about his physical condition, especially concerning his neck, as preparing that area for the demands of driving these cars is exceptionally challenging. He handled it remarkably well, which was very encouraging. It was simply great to see him driving.”
Explaining the benefits Cadillac derived from the two-day event, Lowdon mentioned, “We appreciate Ferrari’s generosity in lending us an F1 car, which allows us to simulate real conditions. For the mechanics, practicing procedures like blanket management, starts, and quick turnarounds between Q1 and Q2 is invaluable. There’s no substitute for using an actual Formula 1 car.”
He further added, “It was also beneficial for Checo to acclimatize to working with his future car crew. He completed 90 laps one day and 93 the next, accumulating significant mileage. A large part of the exercise involved simulations – entering the pit, returning to the track, and addressing scenarios like ERS system alerts…”
“Our mechanics come from varied teams, bringing diverse experiences with different power units and ERS emergency protocols. This practice was incredibly useful, and I’m delighted we pursued it.”
Sergio Perez, Cadillac Racing
Photo by: Jacopo Rava
Lowdon verified that Valtteri Bottas, the team’s other designated driver, will join the GM brand following the conclusion of the 2025 season in Abu Dhabi, remaining with Mercedes as their reserve driver until then.
Lowdon stated, “We’ll welcome him after Abu Dhabi. I’m eager to start working with him. He’s an excellent person to collaborate with and is incredibly enthusiastic. Mercedes has been very helpful and cooperative.”
He concluded, “I believe both Checo and Valtteri still offer substantial contributions to F1. Their complete departure from the sport would have been a loss for F1, so it’s wonderful to have them on the team.”
“They are both remarkably fast, with a combined total of 16 grand prix victories and 106 podium finishes. Bringing in all their experience is precisely what we require for the task ahead.”
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– The Autosport.com Team
