Sergio Pérez Defends 2026 Comeback as Cadillac Struggles to Score
He says his leadership in car development will shape whether he extends his contract as Cadillac focuses on a multi‑year technical rebuild under Mike Elliott.
Overview
- Pérez told media this week that he considers 2026 “one of my best years” on the strength of his driving, decision‑making and leadership despite the team’s lack of results.
- Cadillac has yet to score a point in its debut Formula 1 season and sits bottom of the constructors’ standings after multiple retirements and persistent overheating and reliability problems.
- Across the year Pérez has generally outpaced teammate Valtteri Bottas in head‑to‑head comparisons and says his voice carries significant weight in setting the car’s development direction.
- The team has recruited experienced technical staff, reporting the appointment of Mike Elliott as technical director, and Pérez is reported to hold a contract for 2027 as the focus shifts to development over immediate results.
- Pérez has publicly hinted that retirement “won’t be much longer,” citing the project’s long timeline and a desire to spend more time with his family, so the next season and Cadillac’s progress will be key to his decision.