Cadillac Assembles Experienced Simulator Team for Formula One Debut
In an exciting development for American motorsport, Cadillac has announced its complete simulator driver lineup as preparations accelerate for their Formula One debut. The luxury automaker has assembled an impressive trio of talent: former IndyCar champion Simon Pagenaud, ex-Haas F1 reserve driver Pietro Fittipaldi, and Northern Irish racing veteran Charlie Eastwood. This announcement marks another significant milestone as Cadillac methodically builds its Formula One operation from the ground up, combining experienced personnel with the prestigious American brand’s racing heritage. The team is now taking shape with a blend of seasoned professionals who will provide crucial support to their race drivers Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas when they take to the grid at the Australian Grand Prix in March.
The role of simulator drivers often goes unheralded but remains absolutely vital to a modern Formula One team’s success. These specialists work extensively behind the scenes, calibrating sophisticated computer simulations to accurately replicate real-world track conditions and vehicle characteristics. Their meticulous work provides engineers with invaluable data for component testing and design refinements while giving race drivers a realistic practice environment. Eastwood brings particularly relevant experience, having previously worked as a simulator driver for the dominant Mercedes F1 team and achieved success in endurance racing, including a victory at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans. Fittipaldi offers a wealth of Formula One-specific knowledge from his time at Haas, while Pagenaud contributes championship-winning expertise from America’s premier open-wheel series.
“I am extremely honored to take on this role,” Eastwood remarked in the announcement, his enthusiasm evident for joining a brand-new team at its inception. “I will be able to contribute to their Formula 1 entry by supporting the team through simulator work and development programs leaning on past experiences. I want to thank Cadillac for the trust they have placed in me, especially at such an important time.” His comments reflect the unique opportunity these drivers have – helping to build an American Formula One team from its foundations rather than joining an established operation. This pioneer spirit seems to resonate with all three simulator drivers, who understand their contributions will help shape the team’s culture and capabilities from day one.
Fittipaldi revealed he’s already been deeply involved with Cadillac’s Formula One project, stating, “As a sim driver, my teammates and I have carried out extensive testing and full race weekend simulations to prepare for next season.” This disclosure offers fans a glimpse into the unseen preparation already underway, with the simulator team working through virtual race weekends months before the actual competition begins. “It’s an honor to contribute my experience to a project of this scale and to be part of such an iconic brand as Cadillac,” Fittipaldi added, highlighting the prestige associated with representing the storied American luxury marque in its Formula One endeavor. The Brazilian-American driver’s experience with Haas F1 provides particular value, offering insights into the challenges facing new teams in the sport.
With each announcement, Cadillac’s Formula One vision becomes increasingly tangible. The team has methodically assembled key components: securing experienced race drivers in Perez and Bottas, signing technical staff, attracting sponsors, and now completing their simulator driver roster. This comprehensive approach demonstrates Cadillac’s serious commitment to Formula One, treating their entry not merely as a marketing exercise but as a genuine competitive effort. The combination of Cadillac’s resources with this diverse pool of motorsport talent presents an intriguing formula, though expectations should remain realistic. The first season for any new Formula One team inevitably brings significant challenges as they navigate the sport’s immense technological and operational complexities.
While the upcoming inaugural season will likely include growing pains common to all new Formula One entrants, Cadillac appears well-positioned to climb the learning curve efficiently. Their strategy of blending experienced personnel from various motorsport disciplines could accelerate development compared to previous new teams. The simulator driver announcement completes another piece of this methodical preparation process. As March approaches, American Formula One fans can look forward to seeing Cadillac join the grid at the Australian Grand Prix, representing the United States alongside Haas F1. With their carefully assembled team of drivers, engineers, and now simulator specialists, Cadillac is making a compelling statement about their commitment to America’s growing presence in global motorsport’s most prestigious championship.
