Sergio Pérez’s shocking revenge on Red Bull: how Cadillac’s F1 entrance could change everything
The Formula 1 drivers market is in turmoil while new shocking details emerge as regards the potential range of Cadillac drivers for its item 2026. With the American team that is preparing for its debut in sport, the search for expert drivers but in the long term has intensified. Among the greatest names in dispute are Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Pérez, two highly experienced runners who have spent years supported the dominant teammates without having the opportunity to lead a team alone. However, a surprising turning point involving the Ferrari Zhou Guanyu reserve pilot could interrupt everything, questioning Pérez’s potential return.
Cadillac’s plan for his F1 voice was clear: looking for a mixture of experience and young people to build a competitive base. The team is intended to use Ferrari engines in its first years before developing its power unit by 2028. This connection with Ferrari suddenly placed Zhou Guanyu in an unexpected but strong position. Despite his delicate 2024 season with Sauber, Zhou’s commercial support, the ties with Ferrari and the status of young talent could make it an attractive option for Cadillac.
But the greatest story revolves around Sergio Pérez. After fighting Red Bull throughout 2024, Pérez finds himself in a battle to ensure his future in Formula 1. His mandate to Red Bull has been turbulent, with strong performances in the first races placed by a significant drop in form. While some argue that his struggles were due to the design of the Red Bull car in favor of Max Verstappen, others believe that his inconsistency has exposed his limits. However, Pérez remains an important commercial resource. His popularity in North America, combined with significant financial support from Carlos Slim and Mexican sponsor key, makes it an interesting option for a new team that tries to establish a strong branch presence.
In the meantime, Valtteri Bottas has positioned himself as another leading candidate for Cadillac. A ten -time Grand Prix winner and former Mercedes driver, Bottas has the experience and technical knowledge to lead a new team in his first seasons. After driving the cars powered by Ferrari in Sauber, it also brings familiar with the engine that Cadillac will initially use. However, Bottas clarified that he will not be satisfied with a short -term contract. The Finnish pilot is looking for a long -term project with stability and a clear competitive vision, something that Cadillac must take into consideration carefully.
The joker in Cadillac’s plans remains Colton Herta. The American Indycar star has long been linked to a move to F1, but its lack of enthusiasm to actively pursue a switch raises questions about his commitment. While an American driver would be ideal for the strategy of the Cadillac brand, Herta’s reluctance could force the team to look for their training elsewhere. This opens the door to Zhou, Bottas or Pérez to take one of the places, at least for the first seasons.
Pérez’s offer for a place Cadillac is not just about staying in F1, but it is a question of showing that his Red Bull struggles were not a reflection of his true skills. His field, including his father Antonio Pérez, actively worked to guarantee a return and Cadillac could be his best opportunity. With important sponsorship agreements and a strong fan base, Pérez brings appeal to financial safety and marketing that few other drivers can match. If Cadillac gives priority to commercial benefits together with experience, Pérez may have the upper hand over Bottas.
However, Ferrari’s influence cannot be ignored. As a technical partner of Cadillac, the Italian team could push for the inclusion of Zhou Guanyu in exchange for continuous support. Zhou’s youth, the support of sponsorship and Ferrari bonds could convince Cadillac to take a risk for him rather than sign a veteran pilot. While his performances on the track have been inconsistent, the financial and strategic advantages they offer could exceed its racing deficiencies.
As the 2026 season approaches, Cadillac faces a difficult decision. Will it give priority to experience and proven performance by signing Bottas or Pérez? Or will it require a long -term approach and guarantees Zhou as part of a strategic alliance with Ferrari? The battle for a place in Cadillac could be one of the most significant plots in the coming years and the search for Sergio Pérez for redemption can depend on how this situation takes place
