Four-time world champion Max Verstappen has publicly endorsed Sergio Perez for a return to Formula 1 with Cadillac’s newly announced F1 project set to debut in the 2026 season. Verstappen, who raced alongside Perez at Red Bull from 2021 to 2024, believes the Mexican driver remains a strong contender to join the American-based team as it enters the sport as the 11th competitor on the grid.
Having driven together during a successful period for Red Bull, Verstappen and Perez helped secure back-to-back constructors’ championships for their team in 2022 and 2023. Despite this, Perez’s form waned during the 2024 season, resulting in his release from Red Bull at the end of that year. Since then, Red Bull has struggled to find a reliable second driver capable of scoring consistent points or challenging for titles alongside Verstappen.
The Challenges and Opportunities for Perez After Red Bull Departure
Following his departure, rumors have surfaced about Perez’s potential involvement with Cadillac, who are preparing to build their first F1 driver lineup. Verstappen expressed optimism about Perez’s fit for the new team, highlighting his experience and motivation.
“Yes, I think so (it would be the right thing to do). Checo has always been very strong. I’ve always got on well with Checo and as long as he stays motivated to race, I think he would be a good choice for a new team like that (Cadillac),”
Verstappen said.
In discussing Perez’s consistent performance throughout his career, Verstappen remarked,
“If you look at what he did with Force India or Racing Point, or whatever you want to call it, he always managed to score points,”
emphasizing Perez’s reliability and racing skill even when not in a front-running car.
Examining Perez’s Track Record and Potential Impact at Cadillac
Known affectionately as Checo, Sergio Perez began last season with promising results at Red Bull, finishing in the top five in the first six races and securing second place behind Verstappen in three of those events. This strong start contrasts with the less impressive performance of his replacements in 2025, highlighting the gap that Red Bull has struggled to bridge.
Perez’s adaptability has been a hallmark of his career. Over the years, he has secured six Grand Prix victories, including his first win with Racing Point, a team under Mercedes backing that later evolved into Aston Martin. This achievement illustrates his ability to extract performance from midfield teams, which could be essential for a fledgling outfit like Cadillac seeking experienced drivers to build a competitive foundation.
Speculation Surrounding Perez’s Comeback and the Road Ahead
With Cadillac officially entering Formula 1, the search for a driver duo that combines experience and talent is crucial. Verstappen’s endorsement adds significant weight to the speculation that Perez could be onboard to bring proven expertise to the American team. As the 2026 season approaches, further announcements regarding driver lineups are expected, with Perez’s name remaining a strong candidate for a surprising F1 return.
This potential comeback not only presents an opportunity for Perez to reestablish himself on the grid but also addresses Red Bull’s apparent difficulties in replacing him effectively. The involvement of Cadillac introduces new dynamics and fresh competition, signaling an exciting phase in Formula 1’s evolving landscape.
Our Reader’s Queries
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