Max Verstappen, the Dutch Formula 1 star, has publicly backed Sergio Perez for a driving position with the new Cadillac F1 team set to debut in 2026. After being unexpectedly dropped by Red Bull last season, Perez has been seeking a fresh opportunity to remain competitive in Formula 1. Verstappen’s endorsement may be a pivotal moment for Perez’s pursuit of this crucial seat.
Verstappen Highlights Perez’s Driving Strength and Consistency
Known for his candid opinions and aggressive racing style, Verstappen praised Perez’s capabilities, stating,
“Checo has always been very strong.”
—Max Verstappen, Formula 1 Driver
Verstappen pointed to Perez’s steady accumulation of points during his time with Force India and Racing Point, underscoring his value as a reliable driver who can contribute significantly to a team’s championship ambitions. Such support carries considerable weight in the high-pressure world of F1, potentially influencing Cadillac’s decision-making process.
Driver Lineup Speculation as Cadillac Prepares for 2026 Entry
Cadillac’s Team Principal, Graeme Lowdon, has expressed a deliberate approach to finalizing the team’s roster, suggesting no immediate urgency. However, industry rumors consistently name Sergio Perez as a strong contender, particularly as Valtteri Bottas explores alternatives like Alpine. This uncertainty in driver availability has intensified attention on Perez’s potential comeback.
Jonathan Wheatley Praises Perez’s Work Ethic and Impact
Jonathan Wheatley, former Red Bull Sporting Director and now Team Principal at Sauber, commended Perez for both his performance and character. He emphasized Perez’s natural talent and relentless dedication, which galvanizes teammates and elevates overall team performance. Wheatley’s remarks add further credibility to Perez’s suitability for a key role at Cadillac.
Reviewing Sergio Perez’s Career and Racing Achievements
Sergio Michel “Checo” Pérez Mendoza, born January 26, 1990, is a Mexican racing driver with an extensive Formula 1 career spanning from 2011 through 2024. Early in his career, he was part of the Ferrari Driver Academy until 2012. His first podium came at the 2012 Malaysian Grand Prix with Sauber, an achievement that drew praise and rumors about a possible move to Ferrari, although Perez planned to remain at Sauber that season.
Known as “The Mexican Wunderkind” due to his promising talent, Perez joined McLaren in 2013. However, underwhelming results and lack of podium finishes led to his late-season replacement by Kevin Magnussen in 2014, nearly leaving Perez without a seat. In December 2013, Force India secured Perez with a €15 million contract, where he remained through the team’s financial challenges and its transition to Racing Point in 2019.
Throughout his career, Perez has accumulated 25 victories over 180 starts, with eight podiums, three race wins, and two pole positions this season alone. Currently, he stands second in the championship standings with 285 points. His record also includes 12 fastest laps and sector records on four different circuits, highlighting consistent speed and skill.
Implications of Perez Joining Cadillac for the Future of Formula 1
As the Formula 1 driver market shifts rapidly, Sergio Perez’s potential signing with Cadillac could reshape the competitive landscape. Verstappen’s open endorsement, coupled with Wheatley’s praise, paints Perez not only as a capable builder of team success but also as a driver with the experience and determination critical for a debuting team. With notable competitors like Bottas pursuing other options, Perez’s move to Cadillac seems increasingly plausible.
If confirmed, Perez’s arrival would inject veteran expertise into Cadillac’s fledgling F1 project, enhancing their prospects from the outset. Fans and industry insiders alike are watching closely as negotiations progress and 2026 approaches, eager to see how this partnership influences the sport’s evolution.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Max Verstappen a billionaire?
A. Different sources suggest that Max Verstappen has a net worth of about $210 million.
Q. What is Max Verstappen’s baby gender?
A. Verstappen and Piquet have announced the birth of their baby girl, Lily. The couple had earlier shared news of expecting her before the 2024 Abu Dhabi season finale. Lily is now the younger sister to Piquet’s daughter, Penelope.
Q. Is Max Verstappen’s child a boy?
A. Max Verstappen shared the news of his first child’s birth with his partner Kelly Piquet. The four-time world champion updated fans on Instagram Friday, announcing their new daughter, Lily.
Q. Is Penelope not Max Verstappen’s daughter?
A. Kelly Piquet, his partner, is the daughter of former world champion Nelson Piquet. She has a daughter named Penelope from her past relationship with ex-F1 driver Daniil Kvyat. Verstappen has developed a strong bond with Penelope. He recently mentioned this relationship when questioned if being a father might affect his racing performance.