Bottas takes the lead

What seemed like a done deal just weeks ago is now crumbling. Valtteri Bottas has reportedly reached an agreement with Cadillac to become their lead driver for their F1 2026 debut, according to Auto Action.

While Checo Pérez was initially expected to headline the project, the outlet claims the team chose the Finnish driver due to his “commitment and personality.” Team CEO Graeme Lowdon has narrowed down the shortlist… and Pérez is no longer at the top.

Checo falls behind—but not out

This news hits hard for Mexican fans. After parting ways with Red Bull, Sergio Pérez was heavily linked with Cadillac and even seen as their potential No. 1 driver, with just his teammate left to be decided.

But that outlook has changed. While Checo is still technically in the running, outlets like F1 Over Steer report that Mick Schumacher has already been ruled out, and Guanyu Zhou is expected to be next. Of the four original contenders, only Pérez remains… but his chances are fading.

Cadillac or Alpine?

With one seat still up for grabs at Cadillac, Checo Pérez has a slim window of opportunity. Meanwhile, he's also being linked with Alpine, who are desperate for a competitive driver to partner Pierre Gasly after failing to score points in 12 races with Jack Doohan and Franco Colapinto.

Will Pérez still land with Cadillac, or will a change of direction send him elsewhere? Time is running out—and the F1 driver market is closing fast.