The Ferrari F1 Career Path Sergio Perez Nearly Had

Sergio Perez is back behind the wheel of a Ferrari Formula 1 car this week at Imola, 14 years after his initial test drive with a 2009-spec model at Fiorano. Once a promising Ferrari Driver Academy prospect, Perez's career took a different turn, leading him to Red Bull Racing and now, a future with Cadillac. This week's test, using a borrowed Ferrari, serves as a poignant reminder of the Maranello path he almost took.

Why it matters:

Sergio Perez's near-miss with a Ferrari F1 seat represents a significant 'what if' in his career and F1 history. His decision to leave the Ferrari Driver Academy for McLaren altered his trajectory, delaying his arrival at a top team and shaping the narrative of his 'king of the midfield' era. Understanding this pivotal moment provides context for his journey to Red Bull and his upcoming venture with Cadillac.

The Details:

• Early Promise: Perez joined the Ferrari Driver Academy in October 2010, after a strong GP2 season. He debuted in F1 with Sauber in 2011, partly facilitated by Ferrari's engine deal, and quickly gained a reputation for excellent tire management.
• Breakout Season: In 2012, Perez secured three podium finishes with Sauber, including a memorable second place at the Malaysian Grand Prix, which put him firmly in the F1 spotlight.
• The McLaren Opportunity: Perez signed with McLaren for 2013 to replace Lewis Hamilton. This move required him to sever ties with Ferrari, despite a potential future promotion to a race seat.
• The 'Pre-Contract': As Perez revealed on the Beyond the Grid podcast, he had a pre-contract with Ferrari for 2014, not a guaranteed seat. Ferrari considered him too inexperienced for 2013, opting for Kimi Raikkonen in 2014 after Felipe Massa's departure.
• Perez's Choice: Driven by a desire for a competitive car in 2013, Perez chose McLaren, a team that had recently fought for titles. He felt it was an opportunity he couldn't refuse, despite the allure of a future Ferrari seat.
• Post-McLaren: His single year at McLaren was followed by seven years with Force India/Racing Point, where he cemented his reputation as a consistent point-scorer and 'king of the midfield'.
• Red Bull Success: After winning his first Grand Prix with Racing Point in late 2020, Perez joined Red Bull Racing in 2021, securing five more wins and playing a crucial role in the team's championship successes.

Between the lines:

While a 2014 Ferrari seat for Perez was a genuine possibility, it was far from a certainty. He would have needed another strong year at Sauber and convinced Ferrari he was a better option than the returning Raikkonen, who came with a proven track record. Raikkonen's underwhelming 2014 season opened the door for Sebastian Vettel, suggesting Perez might still have been overlooked even if he had stayed the course.

What's next:

Now, Perez is preparing for a new chapter with Cadillac, a stark contrast to the Ferrari red he once seemed destined to wear. His recent Imola test in a Ferrari car is a powerful reminder of the alternative path his career could have taken, highlighting the pivotal choices that define a driver's journey in Formula 1.