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Sergio Perez is establishing the upper hand over Valtteri Bottas during Cadillacâs first Formula 1 season, but the difference between the two veterans is not simply a reflection of performance behind the wheel.
Both drivers joined the American outfit with the task of helping build the team from the ground up and guide it towards competitiveness. That process has proved difficult. Cadillac has yet to score a point in 2026, while reliability and quality-control problems have added another layer of pressure to an already challenging debut campaign.
Suspension failures and brake fires have affected the team, with Bottas appearing to bear the greater impact. Although the Finn is ahead of Perez in the standings, the Mexican has looked considerably more comfortable in the car. He has been closer to the midfield and came close to scoring in Monaco before losing the opportunity because of a pit-lane speeding penalty.
According to journalist Julianne Cerasoli, the explanation for Perezâs stronger showing is linked to the commercial strength he brings to Cadillac. The Mexican has substantial sponsor backing, while Bottas is reportedly left to suffer when the team cannot provide two cars at precisely the same level.
Cerasoliâs account also highlights a significant difference in the driversâ contract situations. Perez can leave Cadillac if he chooses, amid links with Williams, whereas Bottasâ contract would need to be bought out for him to depart before completing its second year.
âActually, Perez can leave if he wants to. Thatâs more like the scenario, right? And as for Bottas, what Iâve heard is that Cadillac would have to pay out his contract so he wouldnât have to serve the second year of it,â Cerasoli said on the UOL Esporte YouTube channel.
She added that both drivers have contracts with Cadillac, meaning any solution would need to make sense commercially as well as competitively.
Following Graeme Lowdonâs sacking, Cadillac will now attempt to change direction under Marcin Budkowski. The new team principalâs immediate challenge is not only to improve the car, but also to ensure that both sides of the garage receive equal equipment and opportunity. Cadillacâs leadership change is already under scrutiny, as outlined in the latest report on Budkowskiâs targets for the team.
Cerasoli stressed that Cadillac is not deliberately disadvantaging Bottas. Rather, the team is struggling to prepare two identical cars, a problem she noted can affect even established outfits. For a new organisation still assembling its operation, that imbalance has become one of its most visible weaknesses.
Heâs a software engineer with a deep passion for Formula 1 and motorsport. He co-founded Formula Live Pulse to make live telemetry and race insights accessible, visual, and easy to follow.