American automotive brand Cadillac has officially secured its entry into F1 racing, marking a crucial step for the F1 team operated jointly by GM and TWG Global. The team is currently on the lookout for suitable drivers, with a management team led by Graeme Lowdon evaluating several potential candidates, among which American drivers may be given priority.
In a recent interview, Lowdon stated that the team's criteria for selecting drivers would focus on performance and competitive skills, with six candidates already making the list. Among them, Colton Herta, who has excelled in IndyCar races, is considered one of the most promising American drivers. Although he still lacks sufficient points for an F1 super license, it’s just a matter of time before he meets the requirements given his consistent performance. Additionally, Jak Crawford, currently a reserve driver for Aston Martin, is also under consideration. This soon-to-be 20-year-old American rookie faces the same challenge regarding his super license points, but his F2 results make him a potential choice for Cadillac.
Besides American drivers, Cadillac might also consider other F1-experienced racers, like Mercedes reserve driver Valtteri Bottas, former Red Bull drivers Sergio Perez and Daniel Ricciardo. Their skills and experience could greatly aid the development of the new team. Additionally, a partnership for supplying Ferrari's power units might lead to the inclusion of their promising drivers, such as Zhou Guanyu or Dino Beganovic, offering Cadillac another option.
Lowdon emphasizes that driver selection is influenced not only by competitive factors but also by business strategies and brand interests, which may lead to unexpected decisions in the future. After Cadillac's entry into F1, driver choice will become a key factor influencing competitiveness, and whether this newcomer team can stand out on the track will depend on upcoming decisions and directions for development.
