A senior Red Bull figure believes Sergio Perez is well placed to impress when he returns to Formula 1 with Cadillac in 2026. Chief Engineer Paul Monaghan has backed the Mexican driver to thrive despite the challenges that come with joining a brand-new team.
Perez spent the most recent season away from the grid after a difficult 2024 campaign alongside Max Verstappen led Red Bull to end their partnership. His struggles in comparison to the reigning champion ultimately left him without a seat for 2025.
The arrival of Cadillac, however, has opened the door for Perez’s comeback. With the American manufacturer entering Formula 1 as the sport’s 11th team, new opportunities have emerged, and Perez has been selected as a key part of its debut project.
Monaghan’s confidence suggests that Perez’s experience and resilience could prove invaluable for a new outfit finding its feet in Formula 1. Having raced at the top level for over a decade, Perez is expected to bring leadership and technical feedback to the team.
Cadillac has taken a similar approach with its second driver choice, also signing Valtteri Bottas. By opting for two proven race winners, the team is clearly prioritising experience as it prepares for the demands of its first season on the Formula 1 grid.
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