The Cadillac Formula 1® Team achieved a major landmark today as Sergio ‘Checo’ Perez completed the first-ever on-track laps for the new-for-2026 American squad. The team took to the historic Silverstone track during a pre-season promotional day, marking a monumental moment as it continues preparations for its debut F1 campaign.
The laps were completed as part of a promotional filming day, serving the dual purpose of gathering footage of the car on track, and the opportunity to shake down the new machine to ensure all systems are working as expected in preparation for official pre-season testing.
“Today was really an amazing day,” said Perez. “Everyone should feel incredibly proud to complete our first laps as a team. Each and every person has worked so hard to get to this moment and it was emotional to be part of motorsport history. We can, and should, all enjoy, but it’s absolutely fired me up for more. I just want to get back in and get mileage – this is just the start.”
The car ran entirely in black at Silverstone, with the final 2026 Cadillac livery set to be revealed on Sunday, February 8, via a TV advertising spot during the 2026 Super Bowl, representing a bold new way for the team to connect with new audiences within the United States and beyond.
Dan Towriss, CEO of Cadillac Formula 1® Team Holdings, said: “Today’s shakedown is a significant step for the Cadillac Formula 1 Team. Watching the car roll out of the garage is a moment of pride. The first laps on track mark a historic milestone; the culmination of thousands of hours of work, driven by pure passion. Graeme has done an outstanding job of assembling a team of absolute racers that have given everything to get to this moment. This is just the beginning, as our work continues at pace towards Melbourne and beyond."
Team Principal Graeme Lowdon added: “Today represents countless hours of hard work, commitment and belief from everyone involved in the team. It shows the progress we’re continuing to make in a short space of time. It’s been a great opportunity for the team to gel in a live garage environment, verify car systems, and resolve any initial issues. But it’s just the beginning of the road; we now turn our attention to pre-season testing in just a few weeks’ time, which will provide even more opportunity to learn.”
Images: Cadillac
