Sergio Perez’s F1 Comeback Talks Heat Up: A Revenge Plot Against Red Bull?

Formula 1 fans are buzzing with excitement as Sergio Perez, the former Red Bull driver, hints at a sensational return to the grid as early as 2026. After a tumultuous exit from Red Bull following a challenging 2024 season, Perez is now at the center of speculation, with multiple teams reportedly vying for his signature. In an exclusive interview with the official F1 channel, the 35-year-old Mexican driver revealed he’s been approached by several outfits since his departure in Abu Dhabi, with Cadillac emerging as a frontrunner. But could this be more than just a career move? Could it be Perez’s ultimate revenge on Red Bull, proving they underestimated his talent?

Perez’s time at Red Bull ended abruptly despite a two-year contract extension signed just six months prior. His struggles with the tricky RB20 car saw him finish a distant 285 points behind teammate Max Verstappen in 2024, leading to his replacement by Liam Lawson. However, Lawson’s underwhelming stint—culminating in a demotion after just two races—has shifted the narrative. Suddenly, Perez’s performance doesn’t look so bad, and Red Bull’s decision to let him go is under scrutiny. As Perez put it, “I spent so long at Red Bull that everyone forgot how difficult the car is to drive.” With Yuki Tsunoda now stepping into the second seat alongside Verstappen, the pressure is on to disprove the so-called “curse of the second seat.” Should Tsunoda falter, Perez could find himself back on Red Bull’s radar—but not without some serious soul-searching from the Austrian team.

For now, Perez is keeping his options open, emphasizing that any comeback must align with his ambitions. “I’m only coming back if the project makes sense and it’s something I can enjoy,” he stated firmly. He’s given himself six months to weigh his choices, a strategic pause that reflects his desire for a team that values his experience and believes in his potential. Cadillac, set to join F1 in 2026 with Ferrari-powered cars, is a strong contender. Mario Andretti, a key figure in the American squad, has openly praised Perez, noting, “Liam Lawson is making Checo look very, very good.” This endorsement underscores Perez’s appeal as a seasoned driver who could lead Cadillac’s debut charge, paired perhaps with a younger talent.

Perez’s sponsors, including Telmex’s Jimmy Morales, are equally optimistic. Morales emphasized that any return must offer “peace of mind” and a competitive edge, hinting at Cadillac’s appeal. “He doesn’t need to return to racing—he’s already done everything he should have—but if he does, it will be because he wants to,” Morales said. This confidence is a stark contrast to Perez’s final days at Red Bull, where he felt unappreciated. Now, with his stock rising, Perez has a chance to rewrite his legacy and show Red Bull what they’ve lost.

The stakes are high for Red Bull too. If Tsunoda struggles with the RB21, an evolution of the problematic RB20, the team’s options could dwindle. A Perez comeback—whether with Cadillac or, in a twist of fate, back at Red Bull—would be a bold statement. Reflecting on his time away, Perez said, “It’s been great to step back, see the sport from the outside, and realize the journey I’ve had.” This newfound perspective has restored his self-belief, setting the stage for a dramatic return. Will Perez sign with Cadillac and make Red Bull rue their decision? Or could a faltering Tsunoda open the door for an unlikely reunion? The F1 world is watching, and Perez’s next move could be his sweetest revenge yet.