The debut race weekend of the Cadillac Formula 1 Team in Formula 1 ended with mixed results but overall satisfaction within the squad. Competing for the first time in the championship at the 2026 Australian Grand Prix, the American entry successfully brought one of its cars to the finish.

Sergio Pérez started the race from 18th position and guided the MAC-26 to 16th place at the chequered flag. The Mexican driver completed the full race distance and recorded a fastest lap of 1:26.070, giving the team its first classified finish in Formula 1.

Pérez described the moment as an important milestone for the new project.

“Our first race as a team is done. Completing the race is incredible and a real achievement just one year after the entry was confirmed. Now we need to focus on improving performance so we can fight harder and close the gap to the teams ahead," he said.

The race ended earlier than expected for Valtteri Bottas. The Finnish driver started 19th but was forced to retire on lap 16 after a problem with the fuel system. 

Despite the setback, Bottas emphasised the significance of the team’s first race weekend.

“This was our first ever Grand Prix weekend, and being on the grid and racing is already something the whole team can be proud of. It’s a shame my race ended early, but we learned a lot and there are positives to take from the weekend,” Bottas said.

Team principal Graeme Lowdon also highlighted the achievement of completing the race in the team’s first appearance.

“It was great to see the Cadillac Formula 1 Team bring its first car home. We are competing against very strong teams, but we believe in what we are building. This is a good start to our journey,” Lowdon said.