P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Daniel Ricciardo has already handed Cadillac their biggest F1 blow yet
Cadillac is currently considering several F1 stars to fill their two seats for the 2026 season, including Sergio Perez, Valtteri Bottas, Logan Sargeant, Mick Schumacher, and Colton Herta.
Team principal Graeme Lowdon has stated that they are seeking at least one driver with proven F1 experience, potentially ruling out Daniel Ricciardo, who has expressed disinterest in joining the team.
Ricciardo, with 8 grand prix wins and 14 seasons of experience, could have brought marketability and fan interest to Cadillac, but his unofficial retirement stance and focus on other ventures have shifted attention to drivers like Perez and Bottas.
While the allure of Ricciardo’s fanbase and race wins is attractive, Perez and Bottas may be more in demand due to recent successes and team positions, with Ricciardo exploring potential avenues in IndyCar, NASCAR, and the Australian Supercars Championship.
Ultimately, Ricciardo’s future in motorsport remains uncertain, but his presence could have been a valuable asset to Cadillac in their inaugural F1 season.
