Test at Imola with Sergio Pérez
Cadillac will test a 2023 Ferrari SF-23 at Imola in November. Sergio Pérez will drive the car during the two-day test. It is part of the preparation for their F1 debut in 2026.
Why this test is important
Ferrari was allowed to provide two-year-old cars. Cadillac will borrow the car and run the test itself. The aim is not to achieve maximum lap times. It is mainly about the practical side of racing. Think garage procedures, IT and logistics.
Focus on teamwork and communication
The test should help shape internal working practices. The team practices radio commands and movements in the pit lane. Unambiguous terms and routines are being worked on. This will create a recognisable Cadillac way of working.
Operational tasks they practice
Cadillac wants to gain experience in all kinds of basic tasks that are important on a race weekend. These are examples of what they will practice:
- Filling the car with fuel and related procedures
- The use of tyre warmers and tyre changes
- Car maintenance such as hydraulic bleeding and quick repairs
- Structure and IT in the garage, including data traffic and systems
Pérez back in an F1 car
For Pérez, this is his first F1 test since his last race for Red Bull in Abu Dhabi last year. For him, it is a chance to drive a modern F1 car again. For Cadillac, it is valuable driving experience with a top driver.
Simulations and further preparation
Until now, Cadillac did a lot of preparation in the simulator. They have simulated entire race weekends and partial remote sessions. In November, they will run a full sprint weekend simulation for the first time ahead of the Brazilian Grand Prix.
Where the team works
Cadillac builds its organisation in several places. The main operation is at Silverstone. There is windfall testing at Toyota in Cologne. TWG is building a new facility in Fishers, Indiana. Cadillac is also using centres of GM and Cadillac itself for technology and development. There will also be a new GM Performance Power Units headquarters in North Carolina for engine development.
Next steps
The Imola test represents a practical step towards 2026. Virtual testing remains important, but nothing replaces working in a real garage. With this test, Cadillac aims to establish routines, let teams work together and experience what happens on a real circuit.
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