S Poddar
Sergio Perez broke with Red Bull at the end of the 2024 Formula 1 campaign, which made fans wonder if Mexican driver Perez’s racing days were behind him. Nevertheless, the indication came in recent statements by one of his former longtime sponsors that there could be an F1 comeback possible for the driver, perhaps even with the new Cadillac F1 team on the block.
Perez’s Red Bull exit caught most people off guard. Previously in 2024, the driver had signed a contract extension with the team which would have retained him on the grid for 2025 with an option of renewal for 2026. Perez had already established himself as an asset to Red Bull, not just in terms of his on-track contributions but also by being a teammate to Max Verstappen and helping the team win the Constructors’ Championship. Moreover, Perez’s excellent sponsorship contracts made him a pivotal figure in the team’s finances.
Although crucial to Red Bull, Perez had a problematic 2024 season. It was hard to drive the RB20 car, and while championship leader Verstappen remained unmatched, Perez wasn’t able to keep up with drivers such as McLaren’s Lando Norris. During the pre-summer European rounds, it was rumored his Red Bull deal might not continue beyond 2024. Towards the end of 2024, Perez’s contract was ultimately terminated, as the grid in 2025 had already been determined.
While Perez’s departure from Red Bull closed one door, it might not close the last chapter in his Formula 1 life. Escuderia Telmex, a prime sponsor of the career of Perez supported by billionaire entrepreneur Carlos Slim, has been sound out possible avenues for the driver’s next move. Escuderia Telmex boss Jimmy Morales said the sponsor had spoken to several teams, including the new Cadillac F1 program.
“We talked to everyone and started to see their plans and if they have any room for Checo,” Morales said. “The important thing is that he’s interested. It’s peace of mind, the ability to focus on your work. There are many things to consider in order to perform at your best. That’s what we’re looking for for Checo.”
Morales also clarified that Perez had become “uncomfortable” at Red Bull, yet he still wished to pursue his career in Formula 1. Nevertheless, Perez did not make any hasty decisions, for the 2025 grid had been completed by the time Red Bull officially ended their association with him.
At 35 years of age, Perez is not looking for a comeback to F1 for the sake of racing. In Morales’ words, “Checo does not need to go back to racing, he has already done what he should have done in his career. But if he does it, it will be because he wants to. He is very competitive, we just need to find a project that excites him and where he can go back and shine.”
A possible transfer to Cadillac might be the ideal chance for Perez. The American team, which is making its Formula 1 debut, has shown interest in acquiring a driver with plenty of experience to assist them in their first season. Perez, with his experience and competitive advantage, might be the ideal fit for the position. He’s proven himself to be both a strong driver and a reliable source of feedback when it comes to car development.
Aside from his on-the-track talents, Perez also comes with substantial sponsorship support, which can be an enormous ally for a team such as Cadillac. His close links with North America can also prove to be a strategic support for the team, particularly if it is searching for a driver with regional roots. Perez’s presence can support Cadillac in gaining a stronger grip in the aggressive F1 market.
Though it’s not known yet whether Perez will actually sign with Cadillac, the potential does look higher than ever before. His sponsors are still investigating options, and if a good opportunity presents itself, Perez will be back in Formula 1, poised to prove what he can do all over again.
