Perez in shock Mercedes F1 return discussion as huge call made

Sergio Perez is without a seat for the 2025 Formula 1 season, having been removed from a driving role by Red Bull over the winter.

The Mexican star has indicated that he's hoping to come back to the sport with a new team in the not-too distant future, with a number of seats likely available in 2026.

F1 HEADLINES: Horner breaks silence as Verstappen SPLIT decision confirmed

READ MORE: Hamilton secures VICTORY as Leclerc crushed in first Ferrari showdown

Mercedes are among the teams who could conceivably have an available drive after this season, with both George Russell and teenage rookie Kimi Andrea Antonelli on expiring contracts.

Another team with two drivers on expiring deals is, of course, Red Bull junior team Racing Bulls – but Perez is extraordinarily unlikely to go there, with the team's stated intention of developing young drivers and his hope of returning to race win contention.

READ MORE: Hamilton backing delivers DREAM result in shock Ferrari appearance

Are you a fan of Perez’s F1 career and want to commemorate his time with Red Bull? Click here to purchase the official signed Perez 2024 Replica Bodywork from F1 Authentics.

Where will Sergio Perez drive next?

A poll of GPFans readers has suggested one overwhelming favourite for Perez's signature for his potential comeback season, but Mercedes were the surprise choice as second favourite.

Cadillac's upcoming 11th team entry won with a staggering 86% of the vote, with no driver yet signed for either of their seats – although they have hinted that one of those drivers will be American.

Mercedes picked up more votes than the other three named teams (Racing Bulls, Aston Martin and Audi) combined, although it does appear that Russell and Antonelli are likely to be renewed.

Perez's future remains up in the air for the time being, with some behind the scenes work with Red Bull likely this year as he reloads for a run at the grid in 2026.

READ MORE: Ricciardo reveals NEW destination in stunning season announcement

Related

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

'I hate it' - Away from F1 racing, this is what Max Verstappen can't stand

• Yesterday 21:52

George Russell wants Mercedes review after Miami Grand Prix

• Yesterday 21:14

Toto Wolff at odds with drivers as F1 war rages off the track

• Yesterday 18:57

George Russell out of excuses after Miami GP battering: 'Just laid down and taken it'

• Yesterday 14:27

Max Verstappen claims he's in the F1 jungle after Miami GP

• Yesterday 10:35

Max Verstappen F1 penalty points bombshell as FIA told to 'park him' with race ban

• Yesterday 09:55