Cadillac F1 Confirms Interest in Sergio Perez for 2026

Mario Andretti Acknowledges Perez as a Strong Candidate

As Cadillac F1 prepares for its highly anticipated 2026 Formula 1 debut, the team is actively scouting for experienced drivers to fill its lineup. Among the potential candidates is Sergio Perez, who could find a new home with the American outfit following his expected departure from Red Bull. Team consultant Mario Andretti confirmed in an interview with ESPN that Perez is indeed on Cadillac’s radar.

Andretti emphasized the importance of securing an experienced driver, particularly for the team’s second seat. While he refrained from naming specific individuals, he made it clear that Cadillac has narrowed its search to three primary candidates.

“For our second seat, we are looking for an experienced driver who can provide leadership,” Andretti said. “From that perspective, our options are quite clear. Realistically, we are considering three drivers, but I cannot reveal who they are.”

When pressed specifically about Sergio Perez, Andretti did not shy away from acknowledging the possibility.

“Perez is definitely an option, yes. We are seriously considering him.”

Perez Weighing His Future in Motorsport

With his Red Bull tenure seemingly coming to an end, Sergio Perez has been exploring various career paths. In a recent YouTube interview, the Mexican driver confirmed that he is keeping his options open but is not rushing into a decision.

“Right now, a lot of doors are open,” Perez said. “I want to give myself time and space to make the right choice for my career.”

Perez, a veteran of Formula 1 with multiple race victories to his name, remains a sought-after driver. While he has not explicitly stated his plans for 2026, his extensive experience and strong racecraft make him an attractive candidate for teams looking to build a competitive foundation.

Why Cadillac F1 Is Interested in Perez

Cadillac’s Formula 1 project, backed by General Motors, aims to make a strong entrance into the sport in 2026. The team is expected to partner with Andretti Global, forming a fully-fledged American F1 operation. While the FIA has yet to approve Cadillac’s entry, preparations are already well underway.

One of Cadillac’s primary concerns is ensuring they have a seasoned driver in their lineup. With the transition to the new 2026 power unit regulations, teams will need strong technical feedback and adaptability. Perez, with over a decade of F1 experience and a background in various team environments, fits this mold perfectly.

Colton Herta vs. Sergio Perez: Who Will Get the Seat?

While Colton Herta remains Cadillac’s primary target for the team’s first driver, the American driver still faces a significant hurdle—his FIA Super License eligibility. Despite Herta’s impressive performances in IndyCar, he has not accumulated enough Super License points to qualify for an F1 seat under current regulations.

This situation increases the likelihood of Cadillac looking toward a more experienced and immediately available driver like Sergio Perez.

Perez’s F1 experience would provide Cadillac with a solid benchmark in its development phase, while also ensuring the team has a competitive presence from the start. Unlike Herta, who would be making his F1 debut, Perez already possesses the necessary race craft, adaptability, and knowledge of modern Formula 1 machinery.

Could Perez Make a Move to the American Racing Scene?

If Perez does not secure a competitive Formula 1 seat for 2026, he could explore alternative motorsport categories. Given his popularity in North America, a move to IndyCar or IMSA is not out of the question. However, staying in Formula 1 is likely his priority, making Cadillac F1 an appealing destination.

For Cadillac, having a driver with Perez’s experience and global fan base would be a strategic move, both competitively and commercially. The team would not only benefit from his on-track expertise, but also from his marketing appeal in both the U.S. and Latin American markets.

What’s Next for Cadillac and Perez?

As the 2026 season approaches, the Formula 1 driver market is expected to undergo significant changes. If Red Bull does not extend Perez’s contract, he will be one of the most high-profile free agents available.

Cadillac F1, meanwhile, must still finalize its entry and secure a power unit supply deal, which could influence its driver choices. While Andretti and General Motors remain confident about their place on the grid, nothing is officially confirmed yet.

What is certain, however, is that Sergio Perez remains a serious contender for one of the Cadillac seats. Whether he ultimately signs with the team will depend on multiple factors, including the FIA’s final decision on Cadillac’s entry, Red Bull’s 2025 plans, and Perez’s own career ambitions.

With speculation growing, fans and analysts will be keeping a close eye on how both Perez’s and Cadillac’s futures unfold in the coming months.