In an unexpected twist that has shaken up the Formula 1 paddock, Mexican driver Sergio “Checo” Pérez finds himself at the center of one of the hottest plots in the driver market. Sources close to the Guadalajara native reveal that Mercedes has opened the door to the Guadalajara driver , just as Red Bull appears to be entering a phase of internal restructuring following the imminent departure of Helmut Marko .
As the 2025 season approaches its midpoint, Checo Pérez has begun to look to the future. While still part of the Red Bull Racing team, the relationship seems more fragile than ever. Helmut Marko, who has always been a key voice in the Mexican’s defense, will no longer be with the Austrian team , leaving Pérez without one of his main supporters.
Given this new scenario, Checo’s options have multiplied. And Mercedes is now a REAL possibility . According to exclusive information obtained by Motorsport Latino , Pérez has already held preliminary talks with the German team , which is looking to revamp its lineup for the new engine cycle that begins in 2026.
The situation at Mercedes is uncertain. With Lewis Hamilton leaving the team at the end of 2024 to join Ferrari, and George Russell still unconfirmed his continued presence beyond 2025, the Brackley-based team needs experience, stability, and immediate results .
That’s where Checo Pérez comes in. The Mexican is an established driver, with podium finishes, victories, and a large fan base in Latin America and the United States, which is of great interest to Mercedes from a commercial and marketing perspective . Furthermore, his experience as Verstappen’s wingman makes him a tactically valuable driver.
With the market for drivers at a fever pitch, these are the three main options open to Sergio Pérez :
Mercedes-AMG Petronas
As we mentioned, this is the most high-profile option. With the backing of Toto Wolff and a possibly free seat in 2026, Checo could arrive as the veteran driver capable of leading the technical project for the new regulations .Cadillac – Andretti Global
Although its entry into F1 is not yet 100% confirmed by the FIA, Cadillac has shown genuine interest in having a high-profile Latin American driver , and Checo would be the ideal candidate. Talks are ongoing, and the possibility of being the face of a new project is tempting.Alpine or Sauber (Audi)
Teams with budget and ambition are both exploring the market for an experienced leader. Checo has the perfect profile to lead a team in transition to the new era of F1 . Sauber, with the entry of Audi, also needs a figure who can handle pressure and build on results.
One of the key factors in this story is the departure of Helmut Marko from Red Bull , a long-standing figure in the team and mentor to talents like Vettel and Verstappen. Marko was one of the staunchest advocates for Pérez’s continued ownership, despite internal tensions.
Without Marko in the organization, Pérez is much more exposed to cold decisions from Red Bull’s top brass , who are already reportedly considering other names such as Yuki Tsunoda, Daniel Ricciardo, or even Liam Lawson.
Sergio Pérez has faced criticism, media pressure, and constant rumors, but he has demonstrated grit and character. At 35, he still has the fuel to write a glorious new chapter in his career , whether at a top team like Mercedes or leading a new project like Cadillac.
The story has yet to be fully written, but what is clear is that Checo no longer depends on Red Bull . The cards are on the table, and the Mexican is in control of his destiny .
Sergio Pérez is no longer just Red Bull’s second-place driver. He’s a key figure in the 2026 driver market , and with Marko’s departure and internal team movements, Checo’s future promises to be more exciting than ever .
Will we see the Mexican dressed in silver with a Mercedes? Or will he usher in a new era with a Cadillac?
