Cadillac boss Graeme Lowdon has ruled out launching a bid to entice Daniel Ricciardo to return to Formula 1 to headline the prospective team’s driver line-up in 2026.
Ricciardo has not competed in the sport since losing his drive with Red Bull’s satellite side, Racing Bulls, to Liam Lawson with six rounds to go in the previous season.
However, the now-departed Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner opined that he wouldn’t be shocked to see Cadillac target the experienced Australian’s signature.
The American marque will increase the grid to 22 cars in 2025 as it becomes the 11th team in the series, opening up two more seats that remain vacated as it stands.
But with Ricciardo having stated that he harbours no ambition to make a comeback, Lowdon has admitted it would not be worth the time attempting to persuade him.
When asked about Ricciardo as a possibility, Lowdon told the High Performance Podcast: “Yeah, actually, I think he’s publicly said that he’s not interested in Formula 1.”
He then added: “If I need to convince someone, then it’s the wrong person.
“You never need to convince a Formula 1 driver to jump in the car. I’ve got no problem; everyone can make their own mind up.”
Cadillac considering up to 10 individuals
Lowdon, who revealed his shortlist goes up to 10 names, has indicated Cadillac is prioritising signing at least one driver who has been established in the F1 paddock.
Unlike Ricciardo, Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez are two options who have signalled a desire to return to the series, despite being resigned to a stint on the sidelines.
Bottas has been eager to secure a route back onto the grid since Sauber opted not to renew him, and Cadillac CEO Dan Towriss admitted he is among the candidates.
“Valtteri is a very attractive candidate for a Cadillac seat,” Towriss told Sky Sports F1.
“He’s a fantastic driver and there are opportunities. We’re confident in the process of where it’s going to shake out.”
But with Alpine interested in Bottas should the Enstone-based squad choose to make another mid-season driver swap in 2025, Sergio Perez is also being considered.
Cadillac has expressed that it bears no concerns about Perez’s alarming downturn in 2024, which culminated in Red Bull dropping him once the campaign concluded.
The Mexican recorded multiple race victories during his time with Red Bull, while he would also add lucrative backing to the team via his long-time personal sponsors.
Regardless, Lowdon has insisted that he is prepared to bide his time to ensure that Cadillac has the ideal combination to tackle the side’s maiden season in the sport.
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