Checo Pérez’s Return to Formula 1 in 2026: Cadillac or Alpine?

Formula 1 is a sport where dreams are built on speed, strategy, and passion, and the name Sergio “Checo” Pérez continues to resonate strongly in the paddock, even after his departure from Red Bull at the end of the 2024 season. The Mexican driver, known for his tenacity and charisma, is making waves as he prepares physically for an expected return to the top category in 2026. With rumors linking him to teams like Cadillac and Alpine, the question on everyone’s mind is: where will we see Checo shine again?

A gap year that doesn’t stop Checo

After a difficult 2024 season at Red Bull, where criticism of his performance against Max Verstappen cast doubt on his continued presence, Checo decided to take a sabbatical year. However, far from sitting still, the Guadalajara native has been seen training intensely, demonstrating that his competitive appetite remains intact. From gym sessions to activities that strengthen his physical endurance, Pérez is sending a clear message: his F1 career is far from over. According to social media posts, his preparation is not only physical but also mental, focusing on returning stronger than ever.

The Mexican, with 14 years of experience and 281 Grands Prix starts, is a valuable asset. His ability to develop cars, as he did at Sauber and Force India, and his loyalty as a teammate, highlighted in 2021 by supporting Verstappen to his title, make him an attractive candidate for any team. Furthermore, the backing of major sponsors, such as Carlos Slim Domit, adds a financial value that few drivers can match.

Cadillac: The gateway to a new chapter

The strongest rumor points to Cadillac, the American team that will debut in F1 in 2026, backed by General Motors and TWG Motorsports. According to Motorsport.com and German outlet Bild, Pérez is in advanced talks for a three-year contract with the team. Although some reports, such as those from ESPN, deny that he has already signed, the possibility of Checo leading this project is exciting. Cadillac, with Ferrari engines in its first year, seeks to combine experience with young talent, and Pérez fits that profile perfectly.

Checo’s arrival at Cadillac would not only bring his on-track expertise, but also a fan base in Mexico, the United States, and Latin America, as well as sponsorships that could boost the team’s budget. However, the challenge is significant: as a rookie team, Cadillac will face an adaptation period and isn’t expected to be an immediate contender for podium finishes. Is Checo willing to take on this challenge instead of looking for a more competitive team?

Alpine: An option with history and ambition

On the other hand, Alpine emerges as an intriguing alternative. The French team, undergoing a restructuring under the leadership of Flavio Briatore, is looking to strengthen its lineup and budget. According to The Race, initial talks between Pérez’s team and Alpine have already begun, although they don’t consider him the leading candidate for now. This isn’t the first time Checo has been on the French team’s radar; when the team was still Renault, he was close to signing, and a leak on its website even showed an image with the brand’s logo.

Alpine could offer Pérez a more competitive environment in the short term, especially with the addition of new sponsors following the promotion of Franco Colapinto. However, the presence of Pierre Gasly, on a multi-year contract, and the possible continuation of Colapinto could complicate negotiations. Could Checo fit into a team seeking a balance between experience and youth?

Mercedes: The Distant Dream

Although less likely, Mercedes has also shown interest in Pérez, according to Motorsport.com. If Max Verstappen were to leave Red Bull, Toto Wolff could consider Checo as a teammate for Andrea Kimi Antonelli, taking advantage of his experience as a loyal squire. However, this option depends on movements in the driver market, which are still uncertain.

At 35 years old and with a legacy of six F1 victories, Sergio Pérez is at a pivotal moment in his career. His return not only excites fans but also promises to shake up the 2026 grid. Cadillac seems to be the strongest option, but Alpine and, to a lesser extent, Mercedes are keeping their doors open. What is certain is that Checo has not lost his spark. While he trains with the same passion that took him to the top, fans in Mexico and around the world are eagerly awaiting to see him back on track, proving that his F1 story still has chapters to write.

Where do you think Checo will race in 2026? Share your opinion and join the conversation!