Sergio Perez praised by F1 boss as Cadillac rumors intensify

Sergio Perez, Checo Perez, Red Bull, Abu Dhabi, 2024 — Photo: © IMAGO

F1 News & Gossip

Sergio Perez praised by F1 boss as Cadillac rumors intensify

Sergio Perez was axed from Red Bull at the end of 2024

By Sheona Mountford.

Wednesday 30 April 2025 19:00

Sergio Perez has been praised by a Formula 1 team principal, as he looks to return to the sport.

The 35-year-old was removed from a racing role by Red Bull after the 2024 season, after struggling mightily as Max Verstappen's team-mate.

However, the team’s former sporting director - turned Sauber team principal - Jonathan Wheatley, has lavished Perez with compliments perhaps signalling interest remains in the driver.

“He understands these things very well, and I always thought his explanations to the engineers about how the car behaved were very clear and easy to understand,” he said to Formula.Hu.

Article continues under video

“Checo is a very professional driver, very talented and, of course, very fast, and a pleasure to work with. I was always amazed by how he could rebuild himself and come back stronger from every setback. He seems to have an incredible ability to rebuild, and I think he also has a great way of being with the team, and the team naturally responds well to that.

“Checo was in one of the toughest seats in Formula 1 last year, alongside Max, and when you're up against someone like him, you have to keep looking in the mirror and asking yourself more questions. I think looking back, he struggled a bit more with the car than Max, and that seems to be consistent this year as well.”

Will Perez return to F1?

Whilst several drivers have been attached to the team, Perez remains one of the favourites as a six-time race winner and also a driver who has expressed his commitment to a return in 2026.

"I've been approached by a few teams since Abu Dhabi. The season has started, so a few things will open up in the coming months," Perez told the Formula 1 website.

"Once I know all my options, I will make a decision.

"What is very clear to me is that I'm only coming back if the project makes sense and it's something I can enjoy."

F1 HEADLINES: Norris penalty verdict debated as Verstappen speaks out on F1 future

Red Bull Max Verstappen Formula 1 Sergio Perez Miami Grand Prix Cadillac