Sergio Perez sets out his conditions for 2026: “I won’t come back at any price”
Sergio Perez has spoken out about a possible return to the Formula 1 grid in 2026.
After a difficult 2024 season, Sergio Perez was replaced by Red Bull. The Mexican driver scored only eight points in the last races, driving a car with which Max Verstappen secured his fourth world title.
Sergio Perez without a seat
Red Bull ended his contract at the end of the season, leaving Sergio Perez without a seat for 2025. However, he remains an important player in the transfer market for 2026, with his name being mentioned at Alpine and Cadillac.
The six-time Grand Prix winner is open to a return next year, but only if the right project comes along.
« Yes, I want to, Sergio Perez told Desde el Paddock. « The answer is yes, I want to return, but only if the right project comes up, a project in which I feel I have my place, where I need to be. I don’t want to return at any cost. I’m not interested in going around the world as a third driver or just waiting for an opportunity. »
« I feel lucky for the career I have had, and I want to come back because I don’t want my career to end like this. But I am also fully aware that I will only return if it is truly worth it, 24 races, and a whole life dedicated to this sport. »
Perez ‘not in a hurry’ despite Cadillac’s interest
Earlier this year, many rumors suggested Sergio Perez as the favorite for one of the seats at Cadillac, which will enter Formula 1 in 2026 as the 11th team.
Recently, it has been reported that Valtteri Bottas is now in pole position to drive for the American team. Sergio Perez remains an option, particularly if the team wishes to bet on two experienced drivers.
Alpine is also a credible option, with its second seat still available. Jack Doohan and Franco Colapinto, the two young contenders, have not yet convinced.
« Things are going well, but I think it is still early in the season », added the Mexican. « With time, everything will become clearer, and I will be able to make a definitive decision. I’m not in a hurry—I know I won’t be in F1 this year, so we’ll see what the future holds for me. »
« If you look at my years with Force India, then with Red Bull – advancing the team race after race to make it a winning team – that’s exactly the kind of environment I’m looking for. A team with that mindset, that unity. For me, it’s more important than any trophy or achievement: finding a project where the driver truly feels motivated », he concludes.
Read also: Who is on Cadillac’s list for its arrival in 2026?
