Cadillac prepares for 2026 with virtual racing simulations

The US-based team, which does not yet have a track-ready car, is strengthening operational cohesion and communication using virtual race simulations during this period, which is referred to as the "ghost team."

"When you're building a new team, you don't want to try everything out for the first time in the first race week," said team principal Graeme Lowdon. "The pressure will be very high in Melbourne, so we're rehearsing all the processes in advance," he said. The team, currently comprised of nearly 400 people, is testing the collaborative working system by rotating roles between hubs in Charlotte, Silverstone, and Fishers, Indiana.

Key to Cadillac's extensive preparations is General Motors' advanced simulator facility in Charlotte, where veterans like Simon Pagenaud, Charlie Eastwood, and Pietro Fittipaldi serve as simulation drivers.

While Sergio Perez, who will be part of the team's 2026 squad, has completed his first test, planning continues with Mercedes for Valtteri Bottas.

"We're only 66 days away from our first start," Lowdon said. "Everything is on schedule and under control. It's a stressful time, but we've assembled a fantastic team. Melbourne will only be the beginning of the journey." He emphasized that preparations are continuing at full speed.