Sergio Perez Makes a Stunning Return to Formula 1 with Cadillac: “The Right Attitude”
In an electrifying development for Formula 1’s future, Sergio Perez has officially re-entered the racing arena with Cadillac, and the excitement is palpable. Graeme Lowdon, the team principal of Cadillac, expressed his enthusiasm following Perez’s first test session with the new team, declaring, “He is re-entering Formula 1 with exactly the right attitude.” This statement underscores the anticipation surrounding Perez’s comeback as he gears up for the 2026 season.
Just two weeks ago, Perez took the wheel of a 2023 Ferrari car at Imola, a pivotal move facilitated by Scuderia Ferrari, which is lending its expertise to Cadillac as they prepare for their debut season. Over two intense days, Perez completed a staggering 183 laps in an unpainted SF-23—a strategic effort to ensure that Cadillac’s trackside crew is primed and ready. Notably, this marks Perez’s return to the cockpit after nearly a year away since his last race with Red Bull at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The Imola test served not just as a technical exercise for the Cadillac team but also as a crucial opportunity for Perez to shake off the rust. Lowdon noted the palpable enthusiasm emanating from the Mexican driver, commenting, “I could see a real enthusiasm with Checo. He’s a proper racing driver who has been out of the car for a little while, so it was really good to see him in the car.”
One of the most significant concerns for drivers returning to competitive racing is physical preparedness, especially regarding neck strength and endurance. Perez, however, rose to the challenge admirably, with Lowdon stating, “He coped incredibly well with that as well. So that was really encouraging. It’s just good to see him go around.”
The two-day outing also proved invaluable for Cadillac as they sought to simulate real F1 conditions. Lowdon explained, “We’re very grateful to Ferrari for lending us an F1 car because we want to make everything as realistic as possible.” The session allowed Cadillac’s mechanics to practice essential procedures, from tire blanket protocols to quick transitions between qualifying sessions.
Moreover, Perez’s time in the car was critical for building rapport with the crew that will support him on race day. He clocked impressive mileage—90 laps on one day and 93 on the next—while engaging in vital simulations, including handling potential ERS system alarms. Lowdon emphasized the benefit of diverse team experiences, saying, “The mechanics come from different teams, so they have different experiences with different power units… It was super, super useful.”
Looking ahead, the excitement continues to build as Valtteri Bottas is set to join Cadillac following the conclusion of the 2025 season. Lowdon revealed, “We get him after Abu Dhabi. I can’t wait. He’s a good guy to work with.” With Bottas, who is currently serving as a reserve driver for Mercedes, joining the ranks, the anticipation for Cadillac’s 2026 season is reaching fever pitch.
Both Perez and Bottas bring a wealth of experience to the team, boasting 16 grand prix victories and an impressive 106 podium finishes between them. Lowdon summed it up perfectly: “If they had walked away from the sport completely, it would have been a loss for F1, so it’s great to have them in the team.”
As Cadillac gears up for its inaugural season, all eyes will be on Perez and Bottas. Their combined expertise could redefine the landscape of Formula 1 racing, making the upcoming season one to watch. The stage is set for a thrilling revival, and fans around the world are eager to witness the resurgence of these formidable drivers.









