Sergio Perez Earns High Praise from Cadillac for F1 2026 Role

Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Cadillac F1 CEO Dan Towriss has lauded Sergio Perez for his exceptional performance in a pivotal job interview that secured his multi-year contract with the team. Perez, a former Red Bull driver, will join Valtteri Bottas for Cadillac’s debut as the 11th team on the Formula 1 grid in 2026. The decision reflects a strategic shift, as Cadillac initially considered a younger driver but opted for Perez’s experience after his standout interview.

Through in-depth analysis, Perez’s interview performance highlighted his extensive expertise, convincing Cadillac of his value. This article outlines Towriss’s praise, the context of Cadillac’s decision, and Perez’s prospects for the upcoming season.

Perez’s Stellar Interview Performance

Announced at the end of the summer break, Cadillac confirmed Perez and Bottas as their drivers for 2026. Initially, the team, set to use Ferrari engines, considered pairing Bottas with a younger driver. However, Towriss revealed that Perez changed their perspective with an outstanding interview. “Checo truly excelled in that meeting,” Towriss stated. He noted that Perez’s experience set him apart from candidates without F1 racing experience.

Towriss posed critical questions during the interview, including Perez’s desire to race, his career aspirations, and his excitement for Cadillac’s project. Perez’s passionate and experienced responses convinced the team that he was the ideal choice for their debut.

Experience Drives Cadillac’s Decision

Cadillac, starting as a Ferrari customer team before transitioning to a full factory outfit, prioritized an experienced driver lineup. With Perez and Bottas boasting a combined 527 F1 starts, the team aims to leverage their expertise for a competitive entry into motorsport’s pinnacle. Towriss explained that while a younger driver was initially considered, Perez’s interview performance underscored the value of his seasoned perspective, making him the preferred choice.

Perez, who faced challenges at Red Bull in 2024, brings a strong track record, including victories at the 2023 Azerbaijan and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix. His experience with midfield teams like Force India/Racing Point further enhances his value for a new team like Cadillac.

Perez’s Outlook with Cadillac

Perez’s return to F1 with Cadillac marks a fresh chapter after a year away from the grid. Paired with Bottas, who brings extensive experience from Mercedes, Perez is expected to help Cadillac establish a competitive foundation. While the team may start in the midfield or lower, their experience will be vital in navigating early challenges.

Looking ahead, Perez must prove he retains the speed and consistency needed to compete in F1. Supported by a skilled pit crew and experienced race engineers, Perez has a strong opportunity to make a significant impact in Cadillac’s debut season.