Marcus Ericsson, the Indy 500 champion and former Formula 1 driver, has stepped into a pivotal support role for Cadillac’s ambitious Formula 1 venture. With the American automaker gearing up for its 2026 debut, Ericsson’s wealth of experience is helping shape the project behind the scenes.
Ericsson’s Role: Simulator Sage
While Ericsson’s days of competing in F1 ended in 2018 after stints with Caterham and Sauber, his journey in motorsport has been nothing short of remarkable. Following his transition to IndyCar in 2019, Ericsson etched his name in history with a dramatic victory at the 2022 Indy 500. Now, as part of Andretti Autosport—the driving force behind Cadillac’s F1 entry—he’s leveraging his expertise to fine-tune the team’s preparations.
“My employer, Andretti, has asked me to fly to England to test different simulators,” Ericsson revealed on Viaplay’s F1 podcast. “Simulators are integral to modern motorsport, and it’s great they value my experience in helping choose the right model for Formula 1, IndyCar, and sports cars.”
Ericsson’s contributions underline the growing importance of simulators in motorsport. From refining car setups to aiding driver development, these high-tech tools are a cornerstone of competitive success.
Who Will Drive for Cadillac in 2026?
While Ericsson’s role is crucial, it’s unlikely he’ll return to the F1 grid as a driver. The focus now shifts to who will take the wheel for Cadillac in 2026. A mix of experienced F1 veterans and rising stars is already being speculated as candidates for the American marque’s debut season.
Experienced Options:
- Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, both potentially without seats for 2025, bring a wealth of F1 knowledge that could be invaluable to a new team.
- Zhou Guanyu and Franco Colapinto, rising stars with proven potential, are also on the radar.
The American Angle:
Amid speculation, one name stands out—Colton Herta, Ericsson’s current Andretti teammate and a proven IndyCar talent. Herta, who finished second in the 2024 IndyCar standings, has been tipped by F1 insiders as a top contender. Backed by 2009 F1 champion Jenson Button, Herta has received glowing endorsements for his raw speed and adaptability.
“He’s extremely quick,” Button told Sky Sports F1. “He gets in and is on it. F1 is very different from IndyCar, but he has the mindset to succeed. He’ll be quick from the word go.”
Cadillac’s Bold Vision
Cadillac’s entry into Formula 1 represents a major milestone for American motorsport. Partnering with Andretti Autosport, the iconic brand aims to make an impact in a sport traditionally dominated by European manufacturers. Their venture also aligns with F1’s growing popularity in the U.S., fueled by high-profile races in Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas.
With Marcus Ericsson providing critical support and a driver lineup yet to be finalized, Cadillac is building a foundation for long-term success. As the clock ticks toward 2026, all eyes are on how this ambitious project unfolds.