Why Cadillac F1 boss provoked fresh intrigue by dodging driver question

Cadillac Formula 1 team principal Marcin Budkowski provoked fresh speculation about the team's future driver line-up during the United States Grand Prix weekend. In an FIA press conference, Budkowski gave an evasive answer regarding Sergio Perez, Valtteri Bottas, and potential interest in Esteban Ocon. While both current drivers have 1+1 contracts, Bottas's seat has faced scrutiny amid Cadillac's ambition to promote an American driver.

Budkowski praised Perez's motivation while contrasting his style with Bottas, noting that multiple drivers and managers have been in touch about future roles. Meanwhile, Cadillac fielded American driver Colton Herta in FP1 in Austin, though he remains one point short of an FIA superlicence. Budkowski also cited young American prospects Ugo Ugochukwu and Sebastian Wheldon as long-term possibilities for the team.