The Cadillac F1 team has a minimum of six drivers on their 2026 short-list

Graeme Lowdon, the principal of the Cadillac team, announced on Monday that they have a list of at least six potential drivers for their Formula One debut next year, and the selection will be based on merit.

The team supported by General Motors received final approval last week to join as the 11th entry on the starting grid, paving the way for discussions regarding the future line-up.

“The clear inquiry is whether we will have American drivers, and I personally believe there is no reason an American driver cannot be chosen based on merit,” Lowdon stated to reporters during a video call. “The primary goal is merit.”

Potential candidates for available F1 seats include experienced drivers such as Zhou Guanyu, Valtteri Bottas, Sergio Perez, and Mick Schumacher, along with American IndyCar standout Colton Herta, who is frequently discussed in this context.

Are there skilled and proficient drivers… exceptionally talented individuals, who are not currently competing on the grid? “Indeed, we do,” replied Lowdon.

We will be engaged in discussions with several individuals. My phone has undoubtedly been quite active, without a doubt.

“There are certainly at least half a dozen candidates, if not more, who possess outstanding credentials to compete in Formula One or to return to the series.”

Herta has not yet qualified for a super-license, but Lowdon mentioned that he would need to obtain it.

He is an exceptionally skilled driver. It’s certainly not surprising that we are considering Colton along with several other drivers,” he stated.

“He won’t be the last driver facing some uncertainty regarding super license points, but we simply have to accept that.” That is a rule. We simply need to honor it.

Lowdon has maintained strong connections with Zhou, assisting in his management, and the Chinese driver is now serving as a reserve for Cadillac’s original engine partner, Ferrari.

“In my opinion, Zhou has performed remarkably well despite the challenging conditions of the past few years,” stated Lowdon.

“He doesn’t really need to elaborate on the background of his abilities since I’ve been able to witness everything firsthand.”

“The appropriate checks and balances are established to ensure that there is no favoritism shown towards him or any other driver with whom we may be involved.”

“There are some excellent options available, Zhou included.”