Sergio Perez Conducts Secretive Ferrari Test at Imola Ahead of Cadillac F1 Comeback
Sergio Perez secretly completed his first F1 test in nearly a year, driving a two-year-old Ferrari at Imola. This unique arrangement facilitated Cadillac's F1 team, which Perez will join in 2026, to gain crucial operational experience and train staff alongside Ferrari, their future power unit supplier. The covert test, run with an all-black car and unbranded gear, focused on familiarizing the team with F1 procedures, marking a significant step in Cadillac's preparations.
Sergio Perez recently made a clandestine return to an F1 cockpit, testing a two-year-old Ferrari at Imola. This marks his first F1 drive in nearly a year, an important step as he prepares for his comeback with the new Cadillac F1 team in 2026. This unique arrangement allowed Cadillac to observe Ferrari's operations and familiarize its team with F1 procedures.
Why it matters:
Sergio Perez's return to an F1 car is a critical milestone for both the driver and the nascent Cadillac F1 team. For Perez, it signals the start of his reintegration into the high-pressure environment of Formula 1 after a period away. For Cadillac, this unprecedented collaboration with Ferrari provides invaluable real-world experience, allowing them to hone operational procedures and team cohesion long before their official debut, a significant advantage for a brand-new constructor entering a highly competitive sport.
The Details:
- Return to the Cockpit: Perez drove a 2023 SF-23 at Imola, marking his first F1 session since the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
- Cadillac's 2026 Plans: Perez is confirmed as one of Cadillac's drivers for the 2026 F1 season, partnering with former Mercedes and Sauber driver Valtteri Bottas.
- Unique Testing Arrangement: Unlike established teams, Cadillac lacks older F1 cars for 'Testing of Previous Cars' (TPC). A deal with Ferrari, Cadillac's power unit supplier, allowed Cadillac personnel to observe Ferrari's TPC outing, with Perez driving.
- Covert Operations: To minimize attention and due to the unusual nature of a driver contracted to another team driving their car, the Ferrari was run in an all-black, livery-free state, and Perez wore a blank black racesuit and helmet.
- Test Data (Unofficial): Italian media reported Perez completed 93 laps on the first day and 91 laps on the second, including pitstop practice. He exclusively used hard compound Pirelli tires. Unofficial sources suggest his best lap time was in the 1:16s.
- Team Training: Cadillac team boss Graeme Lowdon and team manager Peter Crolla were present, sharing a garage with Ferrari's test team. The primary goal was to train mechanics and learn F1 procedures.
Between the Lines:
This test is more than just about Perez getting back behind the wheel; it's a strategic move by Cadillac to fast-track their team's readiness. Without their own previous-generation cars, leveraging Ferrari's existing TPC program was an ingenious way to gain practical experience. The emphasis on 'muscle memory' and 'learning procedures' highlights Cadillac's meticulous approach to building a competitive F1 operation from the ground up. The secretive nature of the test also suggests a delicate balancing act between gaining vital experience and managing team alliances.
What's next:
While no official data has been released, the successful completion of the test has reportedly left Perez feeling positive and comfortable, with Cadillac leadership expressing satisfaction with their progress. This early procedural training is crucial as Cadillac continues its preparations for its highly anticipated F1 debut in 2026. The next significant steps will involve further team integration and simulator work as the team begins to focus on the actual design and development of their 2026 challenger.