In a shocking turn of events that has rocked the Formula 1 world, a leaked document allegedly reveals that Mexican driver Sergio “Checo” Pérez has signed a historic deal with Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team. The contract, which surfaced through unofficial channels late last night, outlines a multi-year agreement that could reshape the future of the sport.
The document, which has not yet been officially confirmed by either Mercedes or Pérez’s representatives, details a 2-year deal starting in the 2026 season, with an option for a third year. What makes this contract truly groundbreaking, however, is not just the team switch – it’s the numbers involved.
Record-Breaking Salary and Perks
According to the leaked information, Checo Pérez will be earning a base salary of $30 million per year, making him the highest-paid Latin American driver in F1 history. Bonuses tied to podium finishes, race wins, and championship standings could push the total annual compensation well beyond $40 million.
Additionally, the contract reportedly includes:
Equity options in Mercedes’ F1 operations
Full control over helmet and personal sponsor branding
A seat at Mercedes’ driver development board, giving Pérez influence over junior talent scouting
These terms indicate a level of power and influence rarely granted to drivers outside of world champions.
Why Mercedes?
The move, if confirmed, would signal a major strategic shift by Mercedes. After years of dominance with Lewis Hamilton and a recent rebuilding phase with George Russell, the team seems ready to bring in a seasoned, reliable performer. Pérez, currently driving for Red Bull Racing, has proven himself a consistent podium finisher and a master of tire management — a skill Mercedes has often struggled with in recent seasons.
Sources close to the paddock suggest that Mercedes sees Pérez as a “stabilizing force” who can work closely with engineers and contribute valuable feedback, especially as the sport approaches the major regulation changes set for 2026.
Fallout At Red Bull?
The leak has ignited speculation about the atmosphere within Red Bull Racing. While Pérez has played a vital support role to Max Verstappen, rumors of internal tension have never fully disappeared. Team Principal Christian Horner has publicly praised Pérez’s contributions but stopped short of confirming his future beyond 2025.
If the leaked deal is authentic, it may explain Pérez’s recent ambiguous comments about “focusing on the future” and “wanting a team that believes in me 100%.”
Red Bull fans are already expressing mixed reactions online. Some see Checo’s potential departure as a loss for the team’s chemistry, while others believe it’s time for a younger talent to step up.
Latin American Pride
In Mexico and across Latin America, the news has been received with overwhelming excitement. Pérez, who became the first Mexican to win a Grand Prix in over 50 years, is widely regarded as a national hero. A move to Mercedes, one of the most iconic teams in Formula 1 history, is being hailed as a monumental achievement.
Trending hashtags like #ChecoToMercedes and #OrgulloMexicano have flooded social media platforms since the leak.
Awaiting Confirmation
As of now, both Mercedes and Pérez’s management team have declined to comment on the leak. Formula 1 fans and analysts are watching closely, waiting for official confirmation or denial.
If true, this move could dramatically reshape the F1 grid and bring a new dynamic to one of the most competitive eras in motorsport history.
Stay tuned — the 2026 season might just have found its biggest storyline yet.
