Cadillac and Mercedes shakedowns signal F1’s 2026 reset

Cadillac and Mercedes have both taken important first on-track steps with their 2026 Formula 1 cars at Silverstone, according to BBC programme details for F1: Back at Base. The episode frames those shakedowns as early markers in the sport’s approaching rules-era reset.

Cadillac’s run is presented as a major milestone before its planned 2026 grid entry, with Sergio Perez the first driver to log miles in the team’s car. The programme also notes Mario Andretti’s advisory presence around the project, linking Cadillac’s ambitions with a significant figure in American F1 history.

Mercedes’ first running also took place at Silverstone in wet conditions, with George Russell completing early flying laps and giving feedback. The episode highlights technical voices from within Mercedes and places Kimi Antonelli’s development within the team’s longer-term plan.

Haas features through Ayao Komatsu’s comments on Ollie Bearman, whose attitude is described as valuable to the team as he approaches his second full F1 season. Bearman’s ambitions are high, but the wider competitive picture remains unresolved until the 2026 cars are tested and raced more fully.