Red Bull’s Max Verstappen backs his former teammate Sergio Perez amidst rumours the Mexican will make his F1 return with Cadillac in 2026.
With Cadillac set to join the F1 grid from next season, rumours have been swirling about a potential driver lineup. Former Red Bull driver Sergio Perez has been heavily discussed as a likely candidate for the incoming American marque.
Perez’ 14 years of Formula 1 experience may prove a tantalising prospect for the inexperienced team. Despite the Mexican’s recent struggles during his stint at Red Bull from from 2021 to 2024, he remains a highly regarded driver.
Speaking ahead of the British Grand Prix, reigning world champion, and Perez’ former teammate, Max Verstappen praised Perez. The Red Bull man believes Perez would be a strong choice for Cadillac ahead of their 2026 F1 debut.
“Checo [Perez] has always been very strong,” Verstappen said in a print media session during the British Grand Prix weekend. “Of course, he had some difficult moments with us, but as long as he has the motivation to race, I think he is a very good choice, especially for a new team.
“If you look at his performances at Force India and Racing Point, you will see that he always scored good points there.”
With official details from Cadillac remaining light on the ground, driver rumours continue to swirl. Verstappen however was not the only current driver to endorse Perez for the Cadillac project. Also quizzed during the British Grand Prix was VCARB rookie Isack Hadjar.
The young Frenchman held the former Red Bull man in high regard, noting his performances alongside Verstappen as impressive. Hadjar echoed Verstappen’s sentiments, claiming Perez would be very deserving of a Cadillac drive.
“I’m hearing a lot of positive things about [Perez] for next year,” Hadjar said. “It seems like something is really going on. He clearly deserves a place there.
“It’s Checo we’re talking about; he did quite well alongside Max.”
Former Red Bull Sporting Director turned Sauber Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley also shared praise for his former colleague. Speaking during an interview for Formula1.com Wheatley praised the Mexican’s personality and skills on track.
“Firstly, I really enjoyed working with Checo. He’s a great personality, great attitude to life, full stop,” Wheatley said. “I have no doubt about his pace and his speed. It’s been natural since the beginning.
“He put in some tremendous drives at my former team and I don’t think it’s much of a barrier that he’s had a bit of time off between driving a Formula 1 car because when you know how to do that, you know how to do it.”
