Sergio Perez described himself as "emotional to be part of motorsport history" as Cadillac completed its first laps on track ahead of its F1 debut this year.
Just 10-and-a-half months after Cadillac received final approval from F1 to become the sport's 11th team, Perez was behind the wheel of the car as it rolled out of a garage at Silverstone to complete its maiden laps as part of a promotional filming day.
In an all-black livery, the team has confirmed it completed its systems checks during the shakedown.
"Today was really an amazing day," said Perez, who returns to the F1 grid this year after a season on the sidelines following his release from Red Bull at the end of 2024.
"Everyone should feel incredibly proud to complete our first laps as a team. Each and every person has worked so hard to get to this moment, and it was emotional to be part of motorsport history.
"We can, and should, all enjoy, but it’s absolutely fired me up for more. I just want to get back in and get mileage – this is just the start."
Team principal Graeme Lowdon remarked that the event was the culmination of "countless hours of hard work, commitment and belief from everyone involved in the team", and highlighted "the progress we’re continuing to make in a short space of time".
He added: "It’s been a great opportunity for the team to gel in a live garage environment, verify car systems and resolve any initial issues.
"But it’s just the beginning of the road. We now turn our attention to pre-season testing in just a few weeks, which will provide even more opportunity to learn."
Cadillac CEO Dan Towriss echoed Lowdon's words in hailing Perez's run out as "a significant step" for the team.
"Watching the car roll out of the garage is a moment of pride," he said. "The first laps on track mark a historic milestone; the culmination of thousands of hours of work, driven by pure passion.
"Graeme has done an outstanding job of assembling a team of absolute racers who have given everything to get to this moment. This is just the beginning, as our work continues at pace towards Melbourne and beyond."
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