Mario Andretti, the 1978 Formula 1 world champion and advisor to Cadillac, has dismissed claims that Sergio Perez has been signed to drive for the new F1 team in 2026, emphasising that no driver deals are finalised.
Cadillac, set to become F1's eleventh team next season, unveiled its presence with a lavish red-carpet event at Queen Miami Beach on Saturday night.
Speculation had swirled that the occasion might include an announcement confirming Perez, dropped late last year by Red Bull, as a 2026 driver. However, Andretti told Sky Deutschland, "First of all, a driver has to be available," amid rumours that the 35-year-old Mexican is also in discussions with up to two other teams for a potential 2026 return.
Perez's billionaire sponsor, Carlos Slim, is also in Miami this weekend, adding fuel to the speculation.
Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher commented on Perez's appeal, stating, "It would be a good story for the American market because he's simply very well-known. He knows a lot about car development. He's also been with new, smaller teams in the past. And he brings sponsorship money with him. His sabbatical may have helped him. Things weren't easy for him recently at Red Bull."
Cadillac is considering an American driver, such as IndyCar star Colton Herta, for one seat, while seeking a teammate with proven F1 experience. "Experience plays an important role," Andretti, 85, acknowledged.
"But when you look at the available pool of drivers, you have to seize the opportunity as late as possible. Because you don't want to miss out on any great opportunities."
Andretti did not rule out high-profile candidates like Perez or Valtteri Bottas, adding, "We know in the back of our minds who we'd like to have, but if a better opportunity arises, we don't want to miss it. We can't commit to anything yet. There are definitely a lot of interested drivers who would love to be on board."
