Cadillac has confirmed that Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez will drive its cars next season as the American team makes its F1 debut.
In a video released on social media, a man with a moustache which could only belong to the Finn answers the telephone.
"Few are called," says a voice, "fewer still are chosen.
"Do you want the spotlight or the legacy it leaves behind," asks the voice. "The Godfathers of American glory (!!!), the rock stars of culture, Cadillac has defined the road, and now, the fastest roads of all.
"Not for a season, but for a future.
"A man has but one destiny. But destinies are written together."
"We've been expecting you," says the voice, now revealed to be that of Keanu Reeves, while the drivers take off their unliveried helmets to reveal Sergio and Valtteri.
All very dramatic, if you like that sort of thing, and definite 'tradition of excellence' vibes.
"From the moment I began speaking with the Cadillac Formula 1® Team, I felt something different - something ambitious but also grounded," said Bottas in the subsequent press release. "This isn't just a racing project; it's a long-term vision. It's not every day that you get a chance to be part of something being built from the ground up and helping shape it into something that truly belongs on the F1® grid.
"I've had the honour of working with some of the best teams in the world, and I can already see the same professionalism and hunger here. This is an iconic brand with a big legacy in American motorsport, and to be a part of the story as it enters the world stage of F1® is incredibly special for me. I'm looking forward to representing the American spirit of racing on the greatest circuits in the world. I'd also like to thank Mercedes for their unwavering support and sportsmanship in facilitating such an exciting step."
"Joining the Cadillac Formula 1® Team is an incredibly exciting new chapter in my career," added Perez. "From our first conversations, I could sense the passion and determination behind this project. It's an honour to be part of a building a team that can develop together so that, in time, we will fight at the very front. Cadillac is a legendary name in American motorsport, and to help bring such a fantastic company to Formula 1® is a huge responsibility, one I'm confident of taking on. I'm proud to be part of such an ambitious and meaningful project from the very beginning. I'm really pleased to be part of such a dynamic line-up, and together I believe we can help shape this team into a real contender, the team of the Americas. We're counting on support from across the continent - and we want to make everyone proud."
The team will operate out of three key motorsport hubs: Fishers, Indiana; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Silverstone, UK - merging American engineering ingenuity with European racing expertise.
"Signing two very experienced racers like Bottas and Checo is a bold signal of intent," said team principal Graeme Lowdon. "They've seen it all and they know what it takes to succeed in Formula 1®. But more importantly, they understand what it means to help build a team. Their leadership, feedback, race-hardened instincts and of course their speed will be invaluable as we bring this team to life. A big thank you to the team at Mercedes for their co-operation and understanding."
"Bottas and Checo bring the perfect balance of talent, maturity, and drive," added Dan Towriss. "They're not just accomplished racers, they're builders, collaborators, and professionals who will help define what the Cadillac Formula 1® Team stands for. This moment marks more than just a lineup announcement. It's the beginning of a bold new chapter in American motorsport."
"Our new drivers are a welcome addition to the Cadillac racing family - each brings a depth of experience, and an unwavering passion to win," said Mark Reuss, GM President. "Together, we're building the foundation for American motorsports that will be an extraordinary legacy for Cadillac, GM and the sport."
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