Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez are the third most experienced driver pairing in the history of Formula 1.
Cadillac F1 drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez have been labeled as “rusty” by team director Mario Andretti, despite performing well in their first three weekends of the season.
Both drivers returned to the grid in 2026 after missing the 2025 season and losing their previous seats, with Bottas having some F1 experience in older machinery as a Mercedes reserve driver.
Bottas and Perez have a combined 533 grands prix experience, making them the third-most experienced driver pairing in F1 history.
Andretti, a veteran of 128 starts, expressed concerns about the drivers’ rustiness and their cautious approach to the new season on the Driven to Wynn podcast before the Japanese GP.
He highlighted the challenges of adapting to the new car package, seeking better rear stability, optimizing power unit performance, and mastering throttle usage, acknowledging the competitiveness and challenges faced by teams outside of Mercedes and Ferrari.
Andretti admitted to feeling relieved not to be in the drivers’ position and observing the complexities of maximizing the car’s potential from the sidelines.
