Checo Pérez’s 2026 F1 Comeback Challenges

Sergio "Checo" Pérez could return to Formula 1 in 2026, and he is expected to do so with Cadillac, although there has been no official announcement to date. While official confirmation is still pending, all signs point to the Mexican driver returning to the track after a year away. His departure from Red Bull was surrounded by controversy, and his return will not be simple, as he will face significant challenges that will define the course of his career.

The Challenges Checo Pérez Would Face in the 2026 F1 Season

Checo Pérez will turn 36 years old in January 2026, which will place him among the most veteran drivers on the grid. The challenge will be to demonstrate that he can remain competitive against a younger generation that is arriving with force. The example of Fernando Alonso, who is still performing brilliantly at 44 years old, could serve as inspiration for him to prolong his performance.

A year without competing in the premier category could become a double-edged sword. The question is whether Checo will be able to return with the same level of precision and reflexes he showed at Red Bull. From day one, he will have to convince critics and fans that he remains a driver capable of making a difference.

The Cadillac project represents a radical change from what Pérez experienced at Red Bull. Adaptation to the new car will be key to closing the gap with the stronger teams. Finding the balance between experience, technique, and patience will be one of the most complicated points of his return.

His departure from Red Bull left open wounds. Beyond competing against Verstappen, which is practically impossible, Checo's challenge will be to demonstrate that his dismissal was a mistake. Every race will be scrutinized by those who will compare his performance to that of Red Bull's second seat.

Within his new team, Pérez will have to assert himself over his teammate. Everything points to it being Valtteri Bottas, a driver with experience and in the same age range. The internal rivalry will define who becomes the face of the Cadillac project in Formula 1, a role the Mexican will seek with all his energy.

However, for the moment everything remains rumors, as nothing has been officially announced.