Sergio Perez’s Shock Return to Formula 1 in 2026: A New Chapter with Cadillac?
Sergio Perez’s departure from Red Bull at the end of the 2024 season seemed to mark the end of his Formula 1 career. However, recent reports suggest that the Mexican driver is on the verge of a sensational return to the grid in 2026, potentially joining the newly formed Cadillac Formula Racing Team. This unexpected comeback could redefine Perez’s legacy while giving Cadillac the experienced leadership it desperately needs in its debut season.
Perez’s exit from Red Bull was inevitable after a dramatic slump in performance. Despite finishing second in the 2023 Drivers’ Championship and contributing to consecutive Constructors’ Championships, his form nosedived after securing a contract extension. With only nine points in the last eight races of the season, Red Bull made the tough decision to part ways with him, ending a four-year tenure that was often overshadowed by Max Verstappen’s dominance.
Many factors contributed to Perez’s struggles, but it wasn’t entirely his fault. The RB20 was developed with Verstappen’s driving style in mind, making it increasingly difficult for Perez to adapt. The car’s instability became so severe that even Verstappen began facing challenges, validating Perez’s earlier concerns. Nonetheless, the damage was done, and his F1 career appeared to be in limbo.
Following his departure, Perez returned to Mexico to reflect on his future. Initially, he expressed uncertainty about returning to Formula 1, stating he needed time to evaluate his next steps. However, it now seems that it took him less than a month to find an enticing opportunity. With the 2025 grid already set, his most viable option for a comeback lies in 2026, where multiple seats remain unconfirmed.
Cadillac, set to make its F1 debut in 2026, has emerged as the frontrunner for Perez’s services. The team, backed by Andretti Global, will enter the sport with a Ferrari engine, and while American drivers like Colton Herta and Alex Palou are being considered, their lack of F1 experience poses a significant challenge. For a brand-new outfit, having an experienced driver is crucial to evaluating car performance and development. This is where Perez becomes an ideal candidate.
His extensive F1 experience, coupled with his immense popularity in North America, makes him a valuable asset both on and off the track. As one of the most marketable drivers, he brings significant sponsorship backing, primarily from Carlos Slim, a longtime supporter of Mexican motorsports. Additionally, his presence would help Cadillac attract a massive fanbase, particularly in key markets like Mexico, Austin, Miami, and Las Vegas.
Former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner has also endorsed the idea of Perez joining Cadillac, emphasizing the need for a seasoned driver. “If you’re Cadillac, you need somebody experienced. Checo has been in quite a few teams for a long time. He knows his way around and could be a big help,” Steiner remarked. He further suggested that a one-year contract would allow Perez to prove himself while stabilizing the team’s early development phase.
Beyond his F1 aspirations, Perez has reportedly explored other racing opportunities, including endurance racing in events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans. However, his primary objective remains an F1 comeback, and Cadillac presents the most realistic and attractive pathway for him to achieve that goal.
Cadillac faces a massive challenge in preparing for its inaugural season, with key technical decisions still pending. The team is evaluating whether to source suspension components from Ferrari, having already secured a deal for power units and gearboxes. If this partnership materializes, Cadillac could follow a model similar to Haas, which has relied on Ferrari components since joining F1 in 2016.
While Cadillac’s long-term vision includes developing its own General Motors power unit by 2028, the initial reliance on Ferrari technology provides a stable foundation for its entry into the sport. Perez’s experience with multiple teams and car setups would be instrumental in guiding Cadillac through this crucial period.
As the 2026 grid begins to take shape, all eyes will be on Perez’s next move. His potential return to F1 with Cadillac could be one of the most compelling storylines of the sport’s new era. Will he seize this opportunity to reignite his career, or will Cadillac explore alternative options like Valtteri Bottas? One thing is certain—Checo’s journey in Formula 1 may not be over just yet.
