Cadillac 2026: F1 legend Martin Brundle suggests Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez in for 'frustration'

Perez and Bottas after 2021 Turkish GP — Photo: © IMAGO

Cadillac F1

Martin Brundle suggests Bottas and Perez in for 'frustration' at Cadillac

The pair will line up for the American outfit next season

Kevin McKenna

Tuesday 26 August 2025 19:56

F1 icon Martin Brundle believes Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas may have to endure some 'frustration' at Cadillac next season.

Following months of speculation, the pair have finally been confirmed as the team's driver lineup ahead of the new team's first campaign in the sport.

And while the news has sparked much excitement, Brundle has warned that it would be foolish to expect everything to go according to plan, at least early on.

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Writing on X, the Sky Sports F1 broadcaster said: "That’s a great driver lineup, the team needs experience and direction in year one, and can’t afford to have rookies damaging cars when all the resources will be heavily stretched.

"They’ll probably have to park their early frustrations as the team gets up and running, especially with such a dramatic regulation reset."

Martin Brundle has predicted the early stages of next season could be tough for Cadillac

Veterans to lead 2026 debutants

Both Perez and Bottas were left without a seat this season after being ditched by Red Bull and Sauber respectively at the end of 2024.

The former has spent his time away from the sport recharging the batteries and preparing himself for a new challenge, while Bottas has provided backup to Mercedes duo Kimi Antonelli and George Russell as the team's reserve driver.

The introduction of new engine regulations in 2026 will see squads go through a period of adjustment as they get to grips with the changes, something Cadillac will hope to take advantage of as they aim to spring a surprise.

They won't be the only new-look team on the grid next year, with Audi also featuring for the first time after completing the takeover of Sauber.

Their driver lineup was confirmed some time ago, with Nico Hulkenberg and rookie Gabriel Bortoleto already assured of their respective seats.

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