The Cadillac Formula 1® Team began the Italian Grand Prix with two Free Practice sessions today. American Test Driver Colton Herta took part in FP1 in Checo Perez's race car, with Valtteri Bottas completing both sessions.

Valtteri finished P19 in FP1, before placing P21 in FP2. Colton's FP1 program was curtailed by a suspected hydraulic power unit issue, limiting his running in the Cadillac MAC-26. Checo returned to the cockpit for FP2 and finished P20.

The team worked through its Friday program and gathered valuable data ahead of the remainder of the weekend.

The Cadillac Formula 1® Team will return to the track tomorrow for the final practice session, FP3, at 12:30 local time, followed by qualifying at 4 p.m.

Checo Perez: "It was a strong outing straight away, which was positive. We still have some ground to make up, particularly for the race, but I think we have a good chance of fighting the Astons. The key now is to maximize qualifying tomorrow and put ourselves in the best possible position for Sunday's race."

Valtteri Bottas: "We had some good running today based on the initial numbers we've seen. The gaps are smaller here compared to last time out in Zandvoort, so we should have a better chance to fight with Aston Martin. I think we still have the upper hand on the straight. I wasn't able to capitalize on a proper slipstream today, so I think there's still some lap time to be found there for Qualifying."

Colton Herta: "Unfortunately, the session was cut short by what we believe was a hydraulic issue, so I would have liked to get more track time. We completed just one push lap before the problem occurred on the cool-down lap. Despite that, every time I get in the car, I learn something and continue adapting to the differences in driving style. I'm really enjoying the challenge, and hopefully we can get back out there soon and make the most of the next opportunity."

Marc Hynes, Chief Racing Officer: "It was a mixed afternoon for us. Unfortunately, a hydraulic issue on Colton's car meant he was unable to complete his planned program, and we apologize to him for that. We changed the PU after FP1 for Checo to take over and will conduct an investigation with Ferrari.

"For Valtteri and Checo, it was a relatively clean second session, although there are still some areas we need to work on overnight. We have identified a few ideas to explore ahead of qualifying tomorrow. The conditions were extremely hot, which made it a demanding day for everyone, but we have useful information and will work hard to maximize the package for qualifying."