The world of Formula 1 has been buzzing ever since the official announcement of Sergio “Checo” Pérez’s return to the competition with Red Bull Racing, and the reaction from the team’s high-ranking officials, Christian Horner and Helmut Marko, has been explosive. Meanwhile, a secret meeting with Cadillac has sparked rumors of an unexpected twist on the 2026 grid.

After months of speculation and internal tension, Red Bull confirmed this week that Checo Pérez will renew his contract for another season, securing his seat until the end of 2026. The decision surprised many within the paddock, considering the Mexican driver’s inconsistent performance during the 2024 season and rumors of a potential replacement by young talents like Liam Lawson or even an unexpected return of Daniel Ricciardo.

But what truly shook the paddock was the angry yet strategic reaction of Horner and Marko following the leak of Checo’s negotiations with Cadillac, the American brand preparing to enter F1 alongside Andretti Global.

According to sources close to the team, news of the secret meeting between Checo Pérez’s entourage and Cadillac executives did not sit well in Milton Keynes. Both Horner and Marko were reportedly shocked and, according to an insider, “felt betrayed” by the Mexican driver, especially because these discussions happened behind the team’s back and before the official renewal was finalized.

During a press conference in Imola, Helmut Marko was direct:

“At Red Bull, we value loyalty as much as talent. If someone wants to play multiple hands, they’ll have to face the consequences.”

Meanwhile, Horner was more diplomatic but hinted that Checo’s future is not completely secure if his performance does not improve.

“Checo has our support, but he needs to prove he can consistently match Max’s level. Formula 1 is a business, and the driver market is volatile.”

Cadillac’s entry into F1 has been one of the most ambitious moves in the sport’s recent history. Despite the obstacles imposed by Liberty Media and the FIA, the Andretti-Cadillac project continues to gain momentum, aiming to join the grid in 2026, right alongside the new power unit regulations.

The secret meeting with Checo Pérez, reportedly held in Monaco during the latest Grand Prix, was said to revolve around offering him the role of lead driver for the new team, with a financial package superior to his current deal and the appeal of being the Latin face of a global American brand.

The ripple effect of this leak is already causing a stir with other teams. Alpine, which is also looking to restructure its lineup, has resumed talks with Pierre Gasly. Meanwhile, Audi is reportedly considering Carlos Sainz as their lead project driver, closing the door to any approach with Pérez.

Fans have reacted intensely on social media. On Facebook, Checo Pérez fan groups are exploding with comments, a mix of unconditional support and criticism of his apparent “double game.”

The Red Bull team is at a delicate moment. While Max Verstappen continues to dominate on the track, internal conflicts, media pressures, and leaks are weakening the environment. The decision to renew Checo seems more political than sporting, perhaps to maintain stability in a year leading up to major changes.

However, the leak about Cadillac and the lack of control over negotiations could force Red Bull to take more drastic measures if Checo does not deliver consistent results in the upcoming races.

In a sport where every decision feels like it’s straight out of a Hollywood script, Checo Pérez’s return, the brutal reaction from Horner and Marko, and Cadillac’s secret role in this story remind us why Formula 1 remains one of the most thrilling spectacles on the planet.

Will Checo be the hero Red Bull needs, or the protagonist of a new chapter of betrayal and redemption?