Cadillac will be welcomed to the F1 grid from the 2026 season as the American team finally won their battle to compete in the sport. The newcomers are tempting key personnel to join the team as they prepare for the upcoming season. However, they have yet to announce any drivers.
One of the drivers Cadillac are rumoured to be in discussion with is former race-winner Sergio Perez. The Mexican is without a drive this season after a difficult 2025 season. The 35-year-old is without a drive for 2026, but he insists there are options for him to rejoin the grid.
Sergio Perez wants an interesting project as rumours swirl around Cadillac links
Former Red Bull driver Sergio Perez is keen to come back to F1. Checo would not want another season on the sidelines, and with age against him, if he doesn’t reappear for the 2026 season, it is unlikely he will again. However, speaking exclusively to F1.com, Perez admitted he was in talks with “a few” teams but is looking for a project that excites him.
He said: “There are a few very interesting projects out there. I’ve been approached by a few teams since Abu Dhabi. We are talking to a few parties out there. Once I know all my options, I will make a decision. What is very clear to me is that I’m only coming back if the project makes sense, and it’s something I can enjoy.”
Sergio Perez would be a good option for Cadillac. The six-time F1 race winner brings a wealth of experience, having been in the sport for 14 years. As well as racing for a top team, Perez was involved in many seasons fighting in the midfield. Cadillac is unlikely to be fighting for race wins straight off the bat, so his experience in the tight mid-pack of the grid could be essential.
However, there are concerns about signing Checo. The Mexican had a dramatic drop-off last season. He struggled to get to grips with the RB20 and had a disappointing season. His age is also a factor, as at 35, he might be on the decline or not around for too much longer in F1.
Who else could Cadillac bring in?
Cadillac is rumoured to be looking at multiple drivers. Another option who could be viewed as a good option is Valtteri Bottas. The Finn also lost his seat last season and is currently Mercedes’ reserve driver. He has numerous race wins and is another experienced pair of hands. However, he is also 35 years old. Would Cadillac want to take a punt on a driver nearing the end of their career?
An interesting option is Yuki Tsunoda. The Japanese driver is competing in his fifth year in the sport, so he would bring experience, but at a good age. However, Yuki has just stepped up to the Red Bull senior team. If he performs well, he could have his contract extended with the Austrian team. His future is currently up in the air.
Cadillac will most likely want an American racing for them. Logan Sargeant has experience in F1, but he didn’t perform well enough. So the team might look to Colton Herta. He is currently racing for Andretti Global’s IndyCar team. The American had previously tested for McLaren and was considered by Racing Bulls to join them in 2023, but Herta lacked enough points on his super license to race in F1.
Mario Andretti has been quoted as saying that Colton Herta is “a good bet“. They would want an experienced driver alongside the rookie to help him learn and progress. Sergio Perez could be the ideal candidate, but who will Cadillac choose?
