Sergio Perez was effectively relieved of his duties at Red Bull at the end of the 2024 F1 season. The team painted it as a mutual decision, but the Mexican’s repeated insistence that he had a contract indicated a desire to continue.
Red Bull had to negotiate a parting of ways with Perez, who had signed a new two-year deal in the summer. The terms of that agreement are not yet known.
Unless there was a performance clause they could activate – which would make little sense given the lengthy nature of talks – a payoff was likely required. It was clear by the chequered flag in Abu Dhabi that Perez’s position alongside Max Verstappen was untenable.
He became the second Red Bull-linked driver to lose his seat in unusual circumstances in 2024. The first was Daniel Ricciardo, whose exit paved the way for Liam Lawson’s successful audition.
Ricciardo now considers himself retired from F1, but Perez’s stance has been unclear. When he addressed his exit on social media, he wouldn’t confirm his long-term plans.
That might be because he genuinely doesn’t know what he’ll do next. New 2026 entrants Cadillac are reportedly interested in Perez, one of the most marketable North American racing drivers.
Sergio Perez could rejoin F1 grid if it makes him ‘happier’
Perez made his first official public appearance since leaving Red Bull on Friday. He attended the Feria de Leon, a festival in his native Mexico.
Appearing on stage, Perez was asked about a potential F1 comeback. He’s planning to decide within the next six months, likely coinciding with the 2026 driver market.
Perez, who has four children, says he’s ‘totally happy’ with his current situation. Nico Hulkenberg is the only driver on the 2025 grid with kids.
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At 34, Perez says he could return for a second stint in F1 – but only if it makes him ‘happier’. Principal suitors Cadillac may start at or near the back of the field, which will be a consideration.
“Things will happen in their own time,” he said. “In the next six months, I will make a decision about what is next for my career.
“I am totally happy. I will return to Formula 1 if that is what makes me happier.”
David Coulthard’s dig at Sergio Perez fans after Red Bull removed him for 2025
Peter Windsor doubts Cadillac will sign Perez, who may not align with their vision. He suspects they’ll want an American driver in one of their cars, and an experienced option with a higher stock in the other.
Indeed, it would be a major gamble to sign the six-time race-winner after a year away. While he scored podiums, and even stood on the top step, during his time with midfield outfits, his brutal experience at Red Bull might have done permanent damage.
David Coulthard faced ‘vitriol’ from Perez fans after predicting he’d lose his drive. He fired back this week, pointing out that he based his claim on the ‘facts’.
With 281 race starts, Perez is one of the most experienced drivers in F1 history. He ranks eighth all-time, between Sebastian Vettel (299) and Felipe Massa (269).
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