Sergio Perez 'seals F1 comeback' as axed Red Bull star 'signs contract' with team

Sergio Pérez has allegedly inked a deal with Cadillac’s Formula 1 squad to race for them in 2026, following disclosures last month indicating negotiations between the Mexican driver and the U.S. outfit. Pérez parted ways with Red Bull at the conclusion of the 2024 season following a troubled season finale. The 35-year-old ended the year without securing a top-six placement in the last nine races, handicapping Red Bull’s chances against McLaren and Ferrari.

Pérez’s Future with Cadillac

The move by Red Bull’s management left Pérez without a team for 2025. In an unusual post-departure interview, the Mexican racer acknowledged that his return in 2026 was uncertain. Nonetheless, recent developments suggest otherwise. According to German outlet BILD, Pérez has already agreed to terms with Cadillac and is poised to race for F1’s newest entrant in 2026. Cadillac plans a formal announcement at this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix, though Pérez’s unveiling is not confirmed.

Impact on Other Drivers

With Pérez reportedly securing his spot, team principals Dan Towriss and Mario Andretti seem to have succeeded in acquiring an accomplished F1 driver to lead development efforts during Cadillac’s inaugural season.

This turns the spotlight firmly on Valtteri Bottas and Kevin Magnussen, both of whom are eyeing a comeback with Cadillac after losing their seats at Sauber and Haas, respectively. The entire paddock awaits to discover who will be partnered with Pérez in the 2026 season.

Potential Teammates

Colton Herta is a strong candidate. The IndyCar prodigy, who competes for Andretti, has consistently showcased remarkable talent throughout his fledgling career. Notably, he remains the youngest-ever race victor in the series.

However, Herta is not the sole contender. Mick Schumacher, Frederik Vesti, and Zhou Guanyu are also in the mix for the seat alongside Pérez. Former F1 champion Juan Pablo Montoya believes Zhou Guanyu is a strong prospect.

The Case for Zhou Guanyu

“I believe Sergio Perez would be an excellent fit for Cadillac, and I wager that the next driver could very well be Zhou Guanyu,” according to the former racer. “They would be an ideal match. Guanyu is Ferrari’s reserve driver. So, he’ll be racing, developing, and working, fully familiar with Ferrari’s intricacies. Given Cadillac’s plans to use a Ferrari engine, this dynamic holds merit.

“If one considers this viewpoint, it certainly makes sense. Some advocate for an American driver, but I believe it would be astonishing if Colton Herta transitioned to F1. The shift from IndyCar to F1 is vast, despite Herta’s remarkable speed. Understanding this shift presents a significant challenge.”