The Formula 1 world is buzzing with excitement over the possibility of Sergio “Checo” Pérez joining the ambitious Andretti-Cadillac project. While the FIA continues to be an obstacle to the American team’s entry, recent moves have sparked rumors of a master plan to circumvent the restrictions and secure a spot on the grid.
Andretti and Cadillac: The Secret Strategy for F1
Andretti’s dream of entering F1 with Cadillac as a partner has encountered strong resistance from FOM (Formula One Management) and several teams, who fear a reduction in revenue sharing. However, recent reports indicate that Cadillac may have found a way around the FIA’s regulatory obstacles.
Andretti-Cadillac’s plan is not only to become the eleventh F1 team, but also to secure a high-caliber driver to ensure its competitiveness. This is where Checo Pérez comes in, whose future at Red Bull remains in doubt following Max Verstappen’s absolute dominance.
Checo Pérez and his possible departure from Red Bull
Checo’s relationship with Red Bull has been the subject of speculation in recent months. Despite his performance, the team’s internal decisions always seem to lean in favor of Verstappen, leaving Pérez in a vulnerable position. If Andretti manages to secure his F1 seat, the possibility of Pérez becoming its star driver would be a masterful strategic move.
According to sources close to the paddock, Andretti representatives have already held talks with Checo’s entourage, exploring the feasibility of a deal. For the Mexican driver, this could be a golden opportunity to lead a team with official support from General Motors and without Verstappen’s shadow looming over him.
Cadillac and Its Clever Registration Maneuver
The key to this whole move lies with Cadillac. While the FIA has approved Andretti’s entry as a new team, FOM has yet to give the green light to its entry on the grid. However, one strategy that could be in play is the acquisition of an existing F1 structure, thus avoiding the need for a clean slate.
Among the options that have been mentioned is a partial or full purchase of an established team, which would allow Andretti to enter F1 without depending on final approval from FOM. This move could also involve a collaboration with Alpine, which had already offered Andretti Renault engines in its original bid.
Reaction of the FIA and the Teams
The growing rumor about Andretti-Cadillac’s entry with a renowned driver like Checo Pérez has generated mixed reactions in F1. While the FIA has expressed support for the grid expansion, FOM and existing teams have expressed concern about the revenue split and Andretti’s ability to be competitive from the outset.
On the other hand, the driver market could also be affected. If Pérez decides to move to Andretti, Red Bull would have to find a replacement, which could open the door to names like Daniel Ricciardo or even an internal promotion from AlphaTauri.
Conclusion: A Move That Can Change F1
The potential signing of Checo Pérez by Andretti-Cadillac, combined with a strategy to circumvent regulatory barriers, could transform the current dynamics of Formula 1. With pressure from the FIA and General Motors’ desire to enter the premier class of motorsport, the battle for a new team on the grid is far from over.
The coming weeks will be key to determining whether this masterstroke becomes a reality or whether bureaucracy and FOM’s resistance will continue to hinder F1’s growth. The futures of Checo and Andretti could be more intertwined than many imagine!