Home
With his future still undecided, Perez remains open to returning to F1 if the right opportunity presents itself. However, he is also weighing the personal sacrifices that come with the sport. Despite Red Bull sacking him from Formula One unceremoniously, Checo has revealed that he will always be in good relations with the team and want them seeing getting accolades.
“I’ve already spent so many years in F1, and once you step back, you realize how much you give up in life to compete at this level,” he admitted. “To commit fully again, I need the right motivation.”
As the 2025 season unfolds, teams will begin planning their lineups for 2026. Whether Perez makes a dramatic return to the grid or chooses a different path, one thing is clear—he remains a respected figure in the F1 paddock, with plenty of interest in his talents.
Perez Return
After stepping away from the Formula 1 grid at the end of the 2024 season, Sergio Perez is actively considering a return in 2026. The Mexican driver, who previously raced for Red Bull, has confirmed discussions with multiple teams but insists he will only come back if the project aligns with his vision and motivation.
Speaking exclusively to F1.com from his home in Mexico, Perez appeared relaxed as he reflected on his career and potential return to the sport. Since his departure from Red Bull in December 2024, the six-time Grand Prix winner has spent time with his family, enjoying his first significant break from racing in over a decade.
“It's been great to step back and see the sport from the outside,” Perez said. “It has given me a chance to reflect on my journey and recognize that I’ve always given my best. That’s important to me as an athlete.”
Red Bull Departure: An Unexpected Exit
Despite having two years remaining on his contract, Perez and Red Bull mutually agreed to part ways following a challenging 2024 season. His struggles with the RB20 car led to mounting pressure, culminating in discussions about his exit after the Qatar Grand Prix.
“Everything happened really late in the season,” Perez explained. “I wasn’t expecting it at first, but by the time we reached Qatar, it became clear that we needed to negotiate my departure. It all unfolded very quickly.”
Interest from Multiple Teams for 2026 Comeback
Although Perez is enjoying his time away from F1, he admits that he is not ruling out a return. However, he emphasizes that the right project must be in place for him to make a comeback.
“If I find a project that fully motivates me, where the team believes in me and appreciates my experience, it would be very attractive,” he stated. “That’s why I’ve given myself at least six months to explore my options before making a decision.”
With the 2026 regulations set to bring significant changes to the sport, several teams have shown interest in acquiring Perez’s services. Sources suggest that Cadillac, which will join F1 as the 11th team next season, is among those in discussions with him.
“There are a few interesting projects out there,” he said. “Since Abu Dhabi, a number of teams have reached out, and as the season progresses, new opportunities may emerge.”
