The world of Formula 1 has taken a dramatic turn that seems straight out of an automotive thriller. Sergio “Checo” Pérez, the most beloved Mexican driver in the paddock, has been officially confirmed as Cadillac Racing ‘s new driver for the 2026 season, marking the beginning of a new era in his career. But the news didn’t come alone: ​​it caused an internal earthquake at Red Bull Racing , where Max Verstappen reportedly threatened to leave the team… and Christian Horner’s reaction was swift.

The announcement that shook the paddock

The news exploded like a bombshell in the run-up to the Miami Grand Prix: Checo Pérez has signed for Cadillac, the new American team that will officially debut on the grid in 2026, in partnership with Andretti Global and GM. The move represents more than just a team change: it’s a veteran driver’s commitment to an ambitious project, backed by one of the most iconic brands in American motorsports.

With this signing, Cadillac not only gains experience and stability in its lineup, but also a legion of fans who passionately follow Checo to every race. And in a masterful PR move, the announcement was accompanied by a high-profile cinematic video featuring Pérez driving a Cadillac prototype in the rain, set to a soundtrack reminiscent of Rush or even Steve McQueen’s Le Mans .

Red Bull enters turbulent terrain

But while the spotlight was on Checo, the shadows were falling on Red Bull. According to sources close to the paddock, Max Verstappen, the current three-time world champion and the team’s undisputed star, reportedly erupted after learning of Horner’s talks with Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso as possible replacements for Pérez before the official announcement.

The threat was clear: if Red Bull doesn’t guarantee him full control over key decisions within the team—including his teammate—it could trigger exit clauses in his contract by 2026. A move reminiscent of rivalry dramas in movies like Ford v Ferrari , where egos, pressure, and corporate decisions collide at high speed.

Horner responds without filters

Far from calming the waters, Christian Horner, the team’s director, decided to respond publicly, with unusual harshness:

“There are no untouchables here. Red Bull is bigger than any driver. If someone doesn’t want to be there, they know where the door is.”

An explosive statement that sparked speculation about an irreparable rift between the team boss and his star driver. While some see it as a strategy to curb Verstappen’s power, others believe Horner is playing political chess, knowing that Mercedes and Aston Martin are closely monitoring the situation.

And now what?

The situation is reminiscent of the best sports thriller films. Are we facing an imminent split between Verstappen and Red Bull? Could Mercedes make a move for the Dutchman? Or is it all a ploy to renegotiate the team’s terms?

The truth is, with Checo off the board and a new team like Cadillac looking to secure its place on the grid, 2026 promises to be an explosive season, both on and off the track.

The Czech factor

Beyond the crisis at Red Bull, Checo’s story with Cadillac has the potential to become an epic documentary: the Latin American driver, criticized and underestimated for years, will now spearhead a new era in American F1. His experience, composure, and adaptability make him the ideal candidate to lead Cadillac to success.

Furthermore, this move connects directly with the renewed interest in F1 from film and streaming platforms, from Drive to Survive to the upcoming film starring Brad Pitt. Will we soon see Checo as the protagonist of a Hollywood-style redemption story?

Cadillac has its hero. Red Bull, its drama. And Formula 1, a new chapter that has already captured global attention. As engines roar and contracts shake out, one thing is certain: the show has only just begun.