Sergio Perez eyes Formula 1 return with Cadillac in 2026

Sergio Perez could be on the verge of a dramatic Formula 1 comeback in 2026, with the experienced Mexican confirming he’s been in discussions with multiple teams since his high-profile Red Bull exit.

After a rollercoaster three-year stint alongside Max Verstappen, Perez was let go by Red Bull at the end of the 2024 season in favor of rising star Liam Lawson.

But with Lawson already losing his seat to Yuki Tsunoda, the 34-year-old’s value is suddenly on the rise once again.

Speaking to F1.com, Perez said he’s been weighing his options carefully since the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

“If I find a project that excites me—where the team believes in me and values my experience, my career, and everything I can bring to the table—it would be very attractive to consider it,” he explained.

He’s not in a rush to make a decision but has reportedly set a mid-year deadline to evaluate potential landing spots. One of the most talked-about options is Cadillac’s much-anticipated entry into Formula 1, which is set to debut in 2026 through a partnership with Ferrari.

While the American team has been linked with the likes of Colton Herta and Guanyu Zhou, Perez’s experience and leadership could make him an ideal fit to spearhead the new operation.

“People have short memories in F1,” Perez added. “They forget what you’ve done after just a few races. But people are now realizing that my position at Red Bull wasn’t easy—and I’ve done extremely well overall.”

With 14 seasons under his belt, stints with five different teams, and a defining win at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix that saved his career, Perez remains one of the most battle-hardened drivers on the market.

His potential return could also bring serious value to a team like Cadillac, which will be looking to make an immediate impact on the grid.

There are currently no betting markets available for who might land a seat at Cadillac in 2026, but oddsmakers will be watching closely.

If Perez signs on, expect a shift in futures markets with top sportsbooks, especially around points finishes and rookie-season podiums. A veteran-rookie pairing is the most likely strategy, and Perez could provide the perfect anchor.

The F1 driver market is heating up, and while Perez may be biding his time, don’t be surprised if the Mexican ace ends up back on the grid with a point to prove—and with serious betting value riding on his return.