F1 Legend Mika Salo Criticizes Sergio Perez as a Poor Choice for Cadillac’s F1 Team
Former F1 driver Mika Salo has stirred up controversy by expressing his doubts about Sergio Perez’s suitability for the upcoming Cadillac Formula 1 team in 2026. Salo believes that Valtteri Bottas would be a far better option due to his experience with Mercedes and his reputation as a competent and sensible driver, qualities that Salo deems essential for a new team.
In a candid interview with Ilta Sanomat, Salo praised Bottas’s track record with Mercedes, stating, “It’s a new team, so experience is a valuable asset. Valtteri has good experience with Mercedes. Now he can calmly assess what the team is doing, instead of just driving, and I think someone like Valtteri would absolutely be the right choice. An experienced driver brings knowledge and talent to the team. He can also suggest who else would be worth hiring to work with him.”
Salo, who previously raced for Toyota and Ferrari, emphasized his preference for experienced European drivers over Perez, citing the Mexican driver’s inconsistency as a major drawback. He recommended either two experienced European drivers or a combination of an experienced driver and a young talent for the Cadillac team.
“I don’t think Perez is a good option,” Salo declared. “I would choose two experienced European drivers who are not as inconsistent as Perez. If they can’t find two, then a younger driver who can learn.”
While Perez remains optimistic about his return to F1 in 2026 and continues to enjoy support from major sponsors, Salo’s comments have cast a shadow of doubt over his potential role in the Cadillac team. Salo’s insights have sparked intense debate within the F1 community, with fans and experts eagerly awaiting Cadillac’s final decision on their driver lineup for the upcoming season.
As the F1 world eagerly anticipates the debut of Cadillac’s team in 2026, the spotlight is now on the team’s selection process for drivers, with Salo’s remarks adding a new layer of intrigue and speculation to the unfolding drama in the world of motorsport.
