May 2 (GMM) The deal is done, according to Europe’s biggest newspaper – Sergio Perez is returning to Formula 1.
The news comes hot on the heels of Formula 1 agreeing a three-year contract extension with organisers of the annual Mexican GP.
That 2026-2028 timeframe lines up exactly with the strong rumours circulating in the Miami GP paddock about the length of Perez’s new contract with Cadillac – to debut next year as F1’s eleventh team.
Days ago, axed Red Bull driver Perez’s chief backer Carlos Slim – part of the wealthiest family in Mexico – admitted the 35-year-old was looking “for something that can excite him and that can be a challenge for him”.
6-time grand prix winner Perez is actually in Miami, where he has a residence, this week – while Cadillac is organising a “red carpet” event on Saturday night amid rumours the 2026 Formula 1 car livery could be unveiled.
Bild newspaper, Germany and Europe’s highest-circulation newspaper, confidently declared: “We have learned that the (Cadillac) deal with the Mexican has been finalised for months.”
Journalist Enrico Ahlig, reporting from Miami, continued: “Sergio Perez brings experience and sponsorship power – exactly what a new factory team needs.
“During his time at Red Bull, he showed that, under the right conditions, he can even win races.”
