Pérez and Bottas agree: the American team has already solved its fuel issues, the next step is to gain downforce, Miami will be the big test with the first major upgrades.
The setup of a new team in Formula 1 follows a logical order: first, survive; then, be reliable; and finally, be fast. Cadillac has just overcome the first two phases. The American team, which debuted this season as the 11th constructor in the Great Circus, has managed to get both of its cars across the finish line in China and Japan after a troubled debut in Australia. Now, the goal is different: to close the 1.2-second gap that separates them from the lower end of the midfield.
Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas are clear about where the next steps should go. Both drivers pointed out, after the Japanese Grand Prix, that the number one priority is to increase the car's downforce. The Mexican was blunt: "The balance itself isn't that bad, it's just that we're lacking downforce. That's where we need to improve the most."
The team leaves behind a complicated March marked by reliability issues, especially a persistent fuel pump problem that gave them headaches. Having overcome that obstacle, in Suzuka they were able to debut a small update: a slightly redesigned diffuser that, according to Bottas, worked as expected. "We gained a bit of downforce, especially at the rear," the Finn explained. "But we're still lacking a lot compared to the top teams."
The big test will come at the Miami Grand Prix, scheduled for next month. Pérez announced that they will bring a much more substantial upgrade package there. "I really hope we bring a big upgrade for Miami. That will be the biggest test for the team," said the Mexican, who is confident they can get into the fight with the midfield if they achieve that second per lap they need.
Bottas seconded that roadmap and celebrated that, unlike other aspects, the car's base balance has been acceptable from the start. "All the fundamentals are there to make good steps forward," he assured. "There are a lot of things in the pipeline, which is good." Additionally, the April break comes at just the right time, it will allow them to prioritize certain areas and with some luck they can bring forward some of the planned upgrades.
In the meantime, the American team can feel satisfied with its evolution. From not being able to run two cars in Australia to scoring two consecutive double finishes, Cadillac has already overcome the toughest learning curve. Now it's time to fly, or at least, try to catch up to Williams and Alpine.