Cadillac is intensively preparing for its entry into Formula 1 and has completed its first day of testing at Imola with a two-year-old Ferrari car.
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| Photo: Jacopo Rava |
Starting next year, an eleventh team — Cadillac — will join the Formula 1 grid. The team has now tested a real F1 car on track for the first time. However, under FIA regulations, new teams are only allowed to test with cars that are at least two years old, and since Cadillac does not yet have its own older chassis, it took advantage of its partnership with Ferrari, from whom it will be sourcing power units. Ferrari provided Cadillac with the two-year-old SF-23 for testing at Imola.
Behind the wheel was Sergio Pérez, one of Cadillac’s confirmed drivers for next season. The other, Valtteri Bottas, is still serving as a reserve driver for Mercedes and therefore could not take part in the test.
According to reports, Pérez covered a total of 457 kilometers — equivalent to 99 laps around the Imola circuit. The main goal of the test was to train mechanics and help the team learn essential operational procedures. Cadillac also used the session to simulate a sprint race. Testing is expected to continue tomorrow.