Perez Eyes 'Final Project' with Cadillac, Reclaiming F1 Fire

After a tumultuous 2024 season with Red Bull, Sergio Perez is embracing his move to Cadillac as his “final project,” describing a renewed sense of motivation and a fresh perspective on his Formula 1 career. The enforced break from racing appears to have reignited his passion, setting the stage for his return with a brand-new team in 2026.

Why it matters:

• Perez's departure from Red Bull and subsequent sabbatical have provided him with a unique opportunity to reset and re-evaluate his career in F1. His comments suggest a driver no longer operating on 'automatic mode' but with a clear, reinvigorated purpose.
• Cadillac's entry into F1 with the new 2026 regulations represents a significant challenge and opportunity for both the team and Perez, who aims to make a substantial impact from day one with a clean slate.
• This 'final project' narrative could define the twilight of Perez's career, potentially showcasing his leadership and experience in building a team from the ground up.

The Details:

• Perez admits the constant pressure and 'automatic mode' of F1 had led to a loss of motivation during his final six months at Red Bull, eroding his enjoyment of the sport.
• The forced break after his Red Bull departure allowed him to step back, gain perspective, and realize how much he missed F1.
• Conversations with Cadillac, and their shared passion for racing, were key in convincing Perez he still had 'something left' to give to the sport.
• Cadillac's Appeal: Despite speaking with multiple teams, Cadillac stood out due to its ambitious plan to build a brand-new operation for the 2026 regulations.
  • Perez sees this as a 'dream scenario' after 15 seasons, offering him a chance to make a meaningful impact and be part of a team starting 'from zero'.
• Hands-on Role: Perez has been deeply embedded with Cadillac's technical group for months, actively participating in meetings and simulator work.
  • He recently completed his first on-track running in nearly two years, testing a 2023-spec Ferrari, as part of his preparation for the 2026 debut.
• He emphasizes the value of being in a team where he can influence decisions and push for specific directions, a stark contrast to his previous experiences.

What's next:

While managing expectations due to the sweeping 2026 rule changes and Cadillac's status as a new entrant, Perez is confident the team can make a strong initial impression. He aims to 'surprise a lot of people' and have a 'strong impact in Formula 1 since day one'.

This project carries significant personal weight for Perez, who views it as his 'main, big, final project' in the sport. His goal is to ensure a successful comeback and conclude his illustrious F1 career on his own terms.