Verstappen Backs Checo’s F1 Comeback with Cadillac

If Max Verstappen had kind words for Sergio Pérez during the British Grand Prix, now he’s doubled down. The four-time Formula 1 champion has publicly encouraged Cadillac to sign his former teammate for the 2026 season, positioning Checo as one of the top names in free agency.

In comments reported by RacingNews365, Verstappen praised Pérez’s quality and insisted he’s not to blame for Red Bull’s current struggles: “He’s a strong option for them. Checo has always been very solid. Sure, he’s had tough moments with us, but so has anyone in that seat,” he said.

Ready to Return—If Motivated

Verstappen made it clear: if Checo is motivated and recharged after his sabbatical, he could thrive again in F1—even with a new team like Cadillac. “If you look at his days at Force India or Racing Point, he always scored points. He’d be a great pick,” Max concluded.

The Most Successful Teammate

Of the ten teammates Verstappen has had in Formula 1, Checo Pérez is the one who helped him collect the most hardware: two constructors’ titles and crucial support during Max’s first driver’s title win in 2021 at the Abu Dhabi GP.

They raced together for 90 Grands Prix, the longest partnership of Verstappen’s F1 career—surpassing even Daniel Ricciardo (58 races). And while the head-to-head was clearly in Max’s favor (79–11), there’s no denying Checo played a key role in Red Bull’s dominance.