Mercedes reserve driver Frederik Vesti has publicly stated his ambition for a Formula 1 race seat with Cadillac in 2027. This declaration comes amidst increasing speculation regarding Valtteri Bottas’ position within the American team for the upcoming season.
Cadillac, making its debut in the 2026 Formula 1 season, has yet to secure a championship point after 17 rounds. The team operates as a new constructor, utilizing Ferrari power units until its own engine program commences in 2029.
Sergio Perez recently signed a contract extension with Cadillac through 2029, solidifying his long-term commitment. However, Bottas’ contract is understood to be a one-plus-one deal, with Cadillac holding an option for 2027.
Team Principal Marcin Budkowski, who replaced Graeme Lowdon in August 2026, has declined to comment on future driver contracts. Bottas has faced performance scrutiny, with Perez generally holding an advantage in both qualifying and race finishes.
The Finn’s recent performance includes an eighth retirement of the season at the United States Grand Prix due to a suspected power unit issue. Bottas also missed media duties for the Mexico City Grand Prix due to illness.
Furthermore, Bottas will start the Mexico City Grand Prix from the back of the grid. This follows a 50-place grid penalty for exceeding the permitted allocation of multiple power unit components.
Vesti’s interest in Cadillac stems from his existing relationship with the manufacturer in IMSA sports car racing. He was part of the No. 31 Whelen Cadillac team that secured the IMSA GTP Team title in 2026.
His co-driver, Jack Aitken, claimed the IMSA GTP Driver title, contributing to Cadillac’s sweep of the Manufacturer, Team, and Driver championships. Vesti will transition to a full-time IMSA GTP seat with Cadillac Racing for the 2027 season.
Vesti recently participated in Free Practice 1 for Mercedes at the Mexico City Grand Prix, where he placed third overall. He has completed six F1 free practice sessions in his career.
“I’m hugely privileged to be working with two awesome manufacturers, Mercedes and Cadillac. Obviously, racing with them in sports cars, they’ve had the chance for two years to see what I can do.”
Colton Herta, Cadillac’s test driver, is also a contender for the 2027 seat. Herta has made five F1 practice appearances for Cadillac, including driving Bottas’ car in Mexico FP1.
His participation in Mexico FP1 allowed him to secure the necessary 40 points for an FIA Super Licence. General Motors, Cadillac’s parent company, is reportedly keen on promoting Herta to a race seat.
However, team insiders are understood to favour retaining Bottas for continuity. Cadillac CEO Dan Towriss has acknowledged Herta’s potential for promotion.
In related news, Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, who leads the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship, also missed media day in Mexico due to a viral illness. Antonelli won the United States Grand Prix, his ninth victory of the season.
