Pérez without pressure: “I have nothing to prove” in Cadillac F1

Sergio Pérez Seeks Revenge in F1 with Cadillac in 2026

Mexican driver Sergio Pérez, after being announced as one of Cadillac’s two drivers for the 2026 Formula 1 season, has expressed his desire to close his time in the top category of motorsport in a different way. Pérez, who was released from Red Bull last year, feels that he could not afford to end his career in F1 after leaving the team. The announcement of his joining Cadillac, alongside Valtteri Bottas, marks the beginning of a new chapter in his career. After a 2024 season with results below expectations, Pérez was replaced at Red Bull. Now, with this new project, the driver seeks to enjoy and give his best in every race.

Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas will compete together in Cadillac in 2026.Pérez has stated that his main goal is to enjoy the sport he loves so much and that has given him so much. “I couldn’t afford to leave F1 the way I left it last year. That’s why I’m back with this new project. I hope it’s very successful. But, above all, I want to enjoy, enjoy this comeback,” said the driver. In 2024, Pérez scored 152 points, while his teammate, Max Verstappen, reached 437. This year, the second Red Bull car has only achieved seven points in the first 14 races. Pérez also spoke about the performance of the drivers who replaced him at Red Bull, Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda, indicating that he has nothing to prove.

I feel like I have nothing to prove, not only for the current drivers or the next ones who were in my seat, but even before. It has been a very complicated place, constantly adapting, building confidence. Mentally it is a unique challenge. I don’t think I have anything to prove.

Sergio Pérez

Cadillac will join the F1 grid as the eleventh team next year. Team principal Graeme Lowdon has downplayed expectations for the first season, and Pérez is aware of the challenges the team will face in its debut. Pérez emphasized the importance of setting new goals and progressing with the team. “I know drivers can get desperate. It’s very easy to say, but once you’re on the grid for 24 races and struggling at the back, despair can appear. But for me, the main thing is to progress with the team and enjoy the journey, because at this point in my career, one more cup, one less, is irrelevant. I want to enjoy the journey and give my best every weekend. And if I can do that for 24 weekends, I will be very happy,” he concluded.