Cadillac chief reveals 'three driver shortlist' for F1 seats and names 'certain' candidate

Mario Andretti has revealed that is part of a three-man shortlist of experienced racing stars under consideration for the new . The American squad have two seats to fill and several drivers interested in representing the iconic brand on the grid in 2026. Perez was dropped by Red Bull at the end of the 2024 season after a miserable year alongside four-time world champion Max Verstappen.

With the 2025 grid already set, an instant rebound was off the table, but the 35-year-old has a handful of options as he pursues an F1 comeback in 2026. According to a report from , Alpine have held constructive talks with Perez, but the six-time Grand Prix winner is deeper in discussions with Cadillac, who view the veteran midfield maestro as the perfect man to lead their new F1 squad.

Asked about the links with Perez, F1 legend and Cadillac advisor Andretti told the Fox Sports Pit Talk podcast: "All I can tell you is that he's certainly one of the drivers that's being considered. He has to be. I cannot divulge as to where we are with any commitment whatsoever.

"I think we want to keep that luxury to ourselves until we feel that we have scanned the entire spectrum of availability. I think that's a prudent thing to do. The choice is somewhat limited. Let's face it, a lot of the great talents are already under contract.

"Fortunately, still there are a few out there... three or four; I'll say maybe three that certainly deserve consideration, and all of this is being looked upon very seriously. There are some conversations going on somewhere and in some other places. That's as much as I can tell you to be fair to everyone."

Valtteri Bottas almost certainly sits alongside Perez on the shortlist. The Finnish racer is also navigating a year on the sidelines after missing out on a contract extension with Sauber, although his is keeping him in the paddock. He would bring extensive experience at both ends of the F1 grid to the table.

Colton Herta is also a likely candidate. Cadillac have been clear in their intentions to bring an American driver onto the grid, and the 25-year-old is one of the most impressive prodigies on the other side of the pond with nine IndyCar race victories already under his belt.

Mick Schumacher and Zhou Guanyu could also be on the Cadillac shortlist. The former was present in Miami two weeks ago as he pursues a route back onto the grid, while the latter is working with Ferrari as a test and reserve driver in 2025, giving him valuable experience with the power units that F1's 11th team will use.