Guess who’s back, back again! Sergio Perez is making a sensational return to Formula 1 with Cadillac in 2026. His former Red Bull teammate, Max Verstappen, has already weighed in with his thoughts. But what really pushed Checo to make this epic comeback, and what does it mean for the future of F1?
The exhilarating world of Formula 1 is buzzing with the news of Sergio Perez’s highly anticipated return to the grid, marking a significant moment for motorsport enthusiasts and a fresh chapter in the Mexican driver’s illustrious career. His comeback for the 2026 season, announced with the new Cadillac team, signals a major shake-up and injects new competitive energy into the sport.
Perez, alongside fellow seasoned veteran Valtteri Bottas, has officially signed with Cadillac, a move that establishes them as the first two drivers for the new racing outfit. This strategic partnership underscores Cadillac’s ambitious entry into Formula 1, leveraging the experience of two accomplished racers to build a formidable presence from the outset.
The announcement has drawn widespread attention, not least from Perez’s former Red Bull Racing teammate, Max Verstappen. The reigning world champion expressed genuine happiness regarding Perez’s return, highlighting the deep respect and camaraderie that often define the intense world of F1 despite fierce on-track rivalries.
Verstappen further elaborated on the immense value Perez brings to a nascent team like Cadillac. He emphasized that Perez’s profound understanding of what constitutes a “great car” – gleaned from years at the pinnacle of motorsport, including his tenure at Red Bull – will be crucial in accelerating Cadillac’s development and competitive edge in the challenging initial stages of their Formula 1 journey.
Adding to the sentiment of warm reception, Sergio Perez himself revealed his surprise and gratitude for the outpouring of messages from numerous fellow drivers. He specifically mentioned receiving congratulations from Verstappen, along with Pierre Gasly and Franco, underscoring a shared bond among the elite competitors who seemed to genuinely miss his presence on the track.
Reflecting on his departure from Red Bull and his subsequent time away, Perez candidly shared his motivations for this bold return. He explained that his time off was vital for introspection, allowing him to reconnect with his passion for the sport and clarify his professional desires. His comeback is not about vindication but about rediscovering the joy of racing.
Perez articulated his heartfelt desire to simply “enjoy the sport” that he loves and that has given him so much. He admitted he couldn’t leave Formula 1 on the terms of his previous exit, making this new project with Cadillac a deeply personal and professionally significant endeavor. He looks forward to a successful tenure, driven primarily by his enduring love for racing.
