Perez and F1, is it really the end?
After 13 seasons in Formula 1, Sergio Pérez finds himself without a seat following his departure from Red Bull. Despite a career marked by ups and downs, the Mexican driver does not rule out a return to the paddock. The American team Cadillac, a candidate to enter F1 in 2026, could offer a golden opportunity to Perez.
The 34-year-old Mexican finds himself without a seat following his dismissal from Red Bull, despite having been on the grid for 13 years.
At the end of December, the former number 11 stated during a press conference in Mexico: “Honestly, everything went very fast at the end of the season, I didn’t expect it, to be frank. I am very happy with my current life and quite enthusiastic about what will come next. My current priority is to have fun and enjoy travel and moments with my family and loved ones,” Checo explains, before leaving the door slightly open: “If I get an interesting project, I will consider it. In the next six months, I plan to make a decision for the next step in my career. I will return to Formula 1 if that’s what makes me happiest. The main criterion is the enjoyment I will have in the coming years.”
Sergio Perez, mentally exhausted after a tumultuous period at Red Bull, must first regain his self-confidence. After that, he can focus on his potential career project for the future.
Cadillac could bring back Perez
Cadillac seeks to make a historic entry into Formula 1 as the 11th team by 2026. Led by the 1978 F1 champion, Mario Andretti, the American team aims for a mix of experience and local talents for its debut lineup.
Andretti has already mentioned the idea of hiring an experienced driver and a rookie, stating to NBC: « From our point of view, I think the best choice initially would be to have an experienced driver — nationality doesn’t matter — and then a young American talent. Those are the goals for now. »
This formula could make Perez a compelling choice. Although other seasoned drivers such as Valtteri Bottas have also been linked to this position, Sergio Perez holds a major asset: his financial appeal. According to the Spanish newspaper Marca, billionaire Carlos Slim and the lucrative sponsors who supported Perez at Red Bull are ready to follow him to his next destination. Such a financial strength could make him an irresistible opportunity for Cadillac.
Furthermore, the Mexican driver brings a loyal and passionate fan base. He is among the few drivers capable of significantly increasing the audience when races are held in America. A valuable advantage for a U.S.-based F1 team that aspires to establish a lasting presence in the landscape.
Christian Horner, team principal at Red Bull, thinks Cadillac would do well to recruit his former driver. I wouldn’t be surprised if they opted for someone with experience like Sergio if he wants to continue his career in F1.
In the meantime, Günther Steiner, the former Haas team principal, shared similar sentiments by suggesting that Perez could thrive in a less tense environment. « If you are Cadillac, you need someone experienced. Checo has been with several teams for a long time. He knows his way around. He could be of great help. »
Despite Perez’s absence in 2025, his valuable experience and solid support could position him as the priority for Cadillac in 2026. For now, one thing is certain: Sergio Pérez has not said his last word in Formula 1. And if Cadillac plays its cards right, the Mexican driver could lead the team towards the next great American dream in F1.
