Overview
- On November 13 at Imola, Pérez completed a two-day run in a 2023-spec SF-23 focused on reacclimating and drilling team operations, with boss Graeme Lowdon saying the team hired him “in shape and ready” and that he “didn’t even push.”
- Cadillac kept official lap times confidential while various unverified figures circulated, and any comparisons are complicated by the use of a 2023 Ferrari chassis rather than current machinery.
- Pérez told F1.com he missed the sport during his year away and returns with renewed energy, calling this his final major project and stressing he is already giving direction beyond driving.
- He will partner Valtteri Bottas for 2026 as Cadillac assembles an experienced group that Pérez believes can help the newcomer progress more quickly.
- The near-term competitive outlook is contested, with Cadillac signaling growing confidence post-test and commentators such as Adrián Puente predicting a back-row start in Australia.