Cadillac CEO Dan Towriss: “The light has returned to Checo Pérez’s eyes”

The head of the new Formula 1 team expressed his delight at having the Mexican driver on board for its debut season in 2026.

Emor Villa Andy Hall

Estados Unidos Update: Sep 18th, 2025 13:07 EDT

In a candid conversation at Dodger Stadium just before Sergio “Checo” Pérez threw the ceremonial first pitch for the Dodgers vs. Phillies game, Cadillac’s Formula 1 team CEO Dan Towriss opened up about the brand’s bold leap into F1—and why Checo is the cornerstone of their 2026 debut.

Cadillac’s grand entrance into Formula 1

“We’re building something from the ground up,” Towriss told a small group of reporters, including AS USA. “Cadillac will be the 11th team on the grid, and fans will get to witness what it really takes to launch a Formula 1 team. And we’re doing it with Checo.”

Towriss emphasized that experience was non-negotiable when scouting drivers. “With Checo, we’ve got talent, pedigree, and a wealth of experience. Our team includes seasoned F1 professionals, but this is our first time working together. Having Checo to help build that chemistry is huge. I can’t wait to see what he does next year.”

Behind closed doors: The meeting that sealed the deal

Was it hard to convince Checo to join? “We were both excited,” Towriss said. “We met in London—privately, no cameras, no press. That meeting changed everything. Checo saw a level of support from our team that maybe he hadn’t felt before. There was a spark in his eyes again. We both walked away thinking, ‘This is the right move.’ I wouldn’t say it was easy, but it was definitely love at first sight.”

Cadillac CEO Dan Towriss: “The light has returned to Checo Pérez’s eyes” — Sergio Pérez, Dan Towriss, and Carlos Slim Domit pose with the Mexican flag during the presentation of 'Checo' with the Cadillac F1 team.ALFREDO ESTRELLA

Looking ahead to the Mexican Grand Prix

Although Cadillac won’t be racing in Mexico this year, Towriss is eager to attend. “We’ll be on the grid, soaking it all in. I’ve had fans approach me around the world saying, ‘We love Checo, we’re from Mexico—can I get a photo?’ That kind of global fanbase is incredible. We’re deeply grateful.”

Checo’s drive and determination

Towriss didn’t hold back in his praise for Checo’s work ethic. “He’s a phenomenal human being. I saw him in the clubhouse simulator breaking lap records set by Dodgers players—which, of course, he should! He’s focused, back in the gym, getting fit. Next week we’ll be in Charlotte, then it’s off to Silverstone to work with the F1 team. There’s a lot to do, but his energy and commitment are inspiring.”

The passion of Mexican fans

“The passion from Mexican fans is unreal,” Towriss said. “I didn’t fully grasp it until I attended an IndyCar race and spoke with Pato O’Ward. I told him, ‘Your country’s fanbase is electric.’ We see it everywhere. We’re thankful for the love and support they show Checo. As a team, we want to deliver results that match that passion.”

Could Los Angeles Host a Formula 1 Grand Prix?

“L.A. has everything—except a Formula 1 race,” Towriss mused. “With the Olympics coming up and a packed F1 calendar of 24 races, it’s hard to say. But never say never. L.A. is a phenomenal stage, especially with its vibrant Mexican and Latino communities. There’s definitely potential.”