Sergio Perez has reportedly agreed a deal to return to the Formula 1 grid in 2026 after he was replaced at Red Bull by Liam Lawson following the 2024 season.
The Mexican has been absent from the F1 grid for the first time since 2010 in 2025, following a period of troubling results against current world champion Max Verstappen.
Perez was replaced by 23-year-old Lawson, who had impressed at junior team Racing Bulls; however, the Kiwi was also replaced on the team by Yuki Tsunoda after just two races.
However, it soon became clear that it wasn't the driver that was Red Bull's issue, as all three drivers suffered similar issues in the second seat.
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With Red Bull's problems now clearly visible for the world to see, Perez, whose reputation as one of the best drivers on the grid has suffered in recent years, looks set to return to the sport.
According to PlanetF1, the 35-year-old has reached an agreement with Cadillac F1, who are joining the grid as an 11th team for the 2026 season.
Cadillac's entrance to the sport divided many within the world of F1 due to skepticism that the team will be able to match the pace of the current pack.
However, with 2026 bringing new chassis and engine regulations for all teams, it could be the best time to integrate a new team into the grid.
The report claims that an official announcement of the Mexican's return can be expected at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza in September.
Perez has been backed by a new manager following his Red Bull exit, with outlets linking him to multiple teams throughout his time away from the sport, such as Alpine and Sauber.
Max Verstappen supports Sergio Perez return
Speaking last month, Perez's former teammate Verstappen advocated for his return to the grid amid the rumours linking him to Cadillac.
“Checo has always been very strong,” Verstappen said during the build-up to the British Grand Prix at Silverstone.
“Of course, he had some difficult moments with us, but as long as he has the motivation to race, I think he is a very good choice, especially for a new team.
“If you look at his performances at Force India and Racing Point, you will see that he always scored good points there.”
Topics: Formula 1, Red Bull Racing, Max Verstappen, Motorsport
Tom Jenkins