Daniel Ricciardo: Cadillac F1 boss Mario Andretti flags Aussie’s credentials as perfect fit for new team

Motorsport legend Mario Andretti has flagged Australian Formula One star Daniel Ricciardo’s credentials as the perfect fit for their new team that is set to take a spot on the grid in 2026.

The Cadillac race team, backed by General Motors, has begun the search for drivers to step into their cars, declaring they are on the hunt for a mix of youth and experience for their inaugural season.

Andretti has laid out the criteria that will tick the boxes for potential candidates, and Ricciardo has charged to the top of the list for the American-based team.

As speculation swirls around potential drivers to snare the prized positions, Andretti explained to NBC News that they have decided on Cadillac’s plans.

When asked whether an American driver is a Cadillac priority — such as IndyCar star Colton Herta — Andretti, a director on the board of the Cadillac F1 entry answered: “Right now, I think yes. You mentioning candidates — he’s definitely one that’s considered.

“I think you have to keep those options open, since it’s going to be a whole next season where we’re not going to be players.”

But the most telling response and favourable reaction for Ricciardo, who is almost certain to pursue one of the spots, came as the balance for both drivers in the team was mentioned and the Australian’s popularity in the US is well known.

“There are more drivers available than teams at the moment,” 1978 F1 World Champion Andretti added.

“Ten teams seems a lot, but there’s a lot more drivers, lot more talent out there.

“From our standpoint, I think the play at the beginning would be to have one experienced driver — nationality doesn’t matter — and then a young American talent. These are the objectives at the moment.”