Sergio Perez Ally Rejects Major Unknown Ahead of F1 Comeback

Sergio Perez’s name has been at the center of Formula 1 discussions as rumors swirl about a possible comeback in 2026, potentially with the new Cadillac team. Perez, the Mexican driver who won six grands prix in his career, was dropped by Red Bull at the end of the 2024 season after a difficult run.

He managed to score only 48 points over the last 18 races for Red Bull, falling short of expectations set by teammate Max Verstappen. Despite this challenging period, there are still those in the F1 world who believe Perez has more to give at the highest level.

One of Perez’s strongest supporters comes from his past management. Otmar Szafnauer, who led Force India and later Racing Point while Perez was there, has made it clear he has faith in Perez’s abilities.

Szafnauer worked with Perez from 2014 through 2020, overseeing moments such as Perez’s first grand prix win at Sakhir in 2020. In a recent interview, Szafnauer shared his view that Perez remains capable of competing as a top driver.

He pointed to Perez’s skill, racing spirit, and strong tire management as qualities that set him apart. Questions have understandably been raised about whether Perez could return to his former competitive level after being off the grid.

Szafnauer was open about Perez’s performance trailing off during his later Red Bull stint but stressed that taking on Max Verstappen is a tough task for any teammate. He described Perez as a “great racer” who rarely makes significant mistakes and excels in areas that are vital for success in Formula 1.

According to Szafnauer, with Perez’s years of experience, coming back to the grid would not be a major challenge. The rumors linking Perez to Cadillac’s entry in 2026 have fueled even more debate.

Cadillac is set to become a new name in F1, and bringing in a driver with grand prix-winning experience could be a boost for the team. Perez’s history with teams outside of top-tier operations, notably his years as one of the best midfield drivers, positions him as a valuable asset for a new outfit aiming to make an impact.

During his prime years at Force India and Racing Point, Perez consistently delivered points finishes and was known for his strategic drives and ability to save tires over long stints. His performances earned him respect as a dependable points scorer and an opportunistic racer when podium chances arose.

Szafnauer’s opinion echoes the sentiment that drivers with Perez’s background can provide both pace and leadership for emerging teams. While no official announcements have been made about Perez’s future plans, the support from influential figures like Szafnauer keeps his name in contention.

The push for a return is complicated by the ever-evolving F1 driver market, but experience and consistent results remain highly valued. As the 2026 season approaches, attention will remain on Sergio Perez and whether he can add another chapter to his Formula 1 story.