The Formula 1 knows an unprecedented wave of speculation concerning the future of the Mexican pilot Sergio Pérez and the next arrival of the team Cadillac on the grid. After four hectic seasons with Red Bull, the 35 -year -old pilot left the Austrian team at the end of 2024, leaving his place to Liam Lawson. Since then, a burning question has been waving the paddock: where will Mexican land for 2026?
Cadillac takes his time for recruitment
Unlike persistent rumors, Sergio Pérez has not signed with any team so far. The Director General of TWG Motorsportsstructure which oversees the Cadillac project, was clear: “We are not in a hurry to choose our pilots”. This methodical approach contrasts with the media Frenesia that surrounds the old Red Bull driver.
The American team’s strategy is based on three major axes: experience, performance and technical returns. With only nine months before the first winter tests, each decision is weighed to the nearest gram (or should we say per kilogram?). Graeme Lowdonteam director, confirmed a shortlist from seven to eight serious candidates.
A $ 500 million project in full acceleration
The adventure Cadillac in F1 is not a simple fad. With the support of General Motorsthe project takes shape at a dizzying speed. In Silverstone, a giant clock hits the days that separate them from their first race. The team already has 350 employees and aims at 550 by the end of the year. A crazy bet for the American brand, but not so risky when you know that GM has more than a century of experience in motorsport.
The stable will have engines Ferrari For his first three seasons, before introducing his own block in 2029. This progressive transition will allow Cadillac to develop his expertise while remaining competitive as soon as he arrived in 2026.
-Pérez: A second chance to seize?
Sergio Pérez Currently benefited from a lifestyle that he had not known since his 14 years. Between football matches, concerts and family moments in Disneyland, the pilot savor this breath of fresh air. But his competitive spirit is never far away. He patiently waits for the transfers market to be decancing, knowing that an upheaval like the departure of Max Verstappen from Red Bull could create a domino effect.
Mario Andrettiteam advisor, has already confirmed Cadillac’s interest in Mexican. After 13 seasons in F1, Pérez There remains a candidate of choice thanks to his past experience and performances. But he said it clearly: there is no question of coming back to finish in the soft belly of the peloton.
The American challenge: performance before nationality
And Cadillac wishes to integrate an American pilot, the team remains firm on one point: the competence takes precedence over the passport. “It’s not a marketing gadget,” insists management. With 23 races per season and demanding F1 standards, no concession will be made on the required level.
The arrival of Cadillac In 2026 marked a turning point for F1, with now 11 teams on the grid for the first time since 2016. Between American ambition and European expertise, between heritage and innovation, the project embodies the evolution of a sport that knows how to reinvent itself.
It remains to be seen if Sergio Pérez will be of this adventure. One thing is certain: the Mexican keeps all its open options, ready to seize the opportunity that will allow it to shine again on circuits around the world.
