Valtteri Bottas has now formally begun work as a Cadillac Formula 1 Team driver, taking his first steps inside the new operation as preparations for the 2026 season accelerate. For Bottas, joining a team entering the championship for the first time represents both a fresh challenge and an opportunity to shape a project from the ground up.

The Finn, who worked as reserve driver at Mercedes this year, reflected on the significance of his first official week with the outfit.

“I’m excited to be starting as a Cadillac Formula 1 Team driver – finally. This is a proud moment in my career as it marks the beginning of a new chapter back on the grid with a team that’s starting its journey in the sport. There’s a lot of hard work that lies ahead, so I’m keen to use my experience to help the team now that I’m fully on board," Bottas said.

“Seeing everything coming together for the first time as a brand-new team is special and makes you realize the momentum of the project. It’s important to get the preparation right as these moments really are the first steps to getting us ready for the first test. I can’t wait to get the season started and go racing once again,” experienced driver added.

Cadillac Formula 1 Team CEO Graeme Lowdon expressed similar enthusiasm about the milestone, emphasising the significance of Bottas’ arrival during the team’s build-up phase.

“It’s great to finally have Valtteri onboard and integrated with the team. We’ve been planning for quite some time now, so it’s fantastic to see these moments happening ahead of our first season on track. I’m proud of all the work everybody is doing in the team. Formula 1 is the greatest team game in the world and it’s times like this where you see the skills, talent and expertise we have, and how well such a talent like Valtteri will be at home,” said Lowdon