After a year away from the Formula 1 spotlight, Sergio Pérez is back at the center of attention. The Mexican driver, who left Red Bull at the end of the 2024 season after a challenging campaign, is in talks to return to the category in 2026. Among the options he is considering, the strongest appears to be the Cadillac team, which will make its F1 debut that same year. According to sources, Cadillac has offered him a three-year contract.

However, Cadillac is not the only one interested. At least two other teams are reportedly vying for the Mexican’s services, setting up a competitive scenario for his future. Meanwhile, Pérez is taking his time: he stated that he wants “at least six months” to evaluate all options, and he is expected to make a final decision in May. His return, which seemed unlikely after his late departure from Red Bull, is now a real possibility.

Cadillac goes all in and faces competition to sign Pérez

Cadillac, preparing its entry into Formula 1 in 2026, sees Checo Pérez as an attractive option due to his vast experience: with 281 Grand Prix entries and six wins, the Mexican could bring stability to a new and ambitious project. The team principal, Graeme Lowdon, has emphasized the importance of having top-tier drivers from the start, though he acknowledges that they have only now entered the driver market. According to him, there are “half a dozen, if not more” candidates who could take a seat, making the final decision even more difficult.

The team’s official launch will take place this Saturday night in Miami, during the Grand Prix, although no driver announcements are expected yet. While there has been speculation about including an American driver due to the team’s local identity, Lowdon has been cautious: he stated that the selection will be based on “merit” and not necessarily on nationality. With a list of talented and available drivers, Pérez’s arrival will depend on how the market shifts, but Cadillac is openly interested in signing a driver with weight in the category.