Checo Pérez returns to F1 with Cadillac and reveals an “anti-Red Bull” clause in his contract. He seeks equality with Bottas and one last major project in his career.

Checo Pérez returns to Formula 1 with Cadillac

Sergio “Checo” Pérez's return to Formula 1 has turned the spotlight on him. After a year out of action in 2025, marked by his departure from Red Bull, the Mexican signed a contract with the Cadillac team, which will make its debut in 2026.

According to specialized media outlets such as Motorsport, the agreement is for two years with an option for a third season, provided that the results accompany the project. Pérez will share the team with Finland's Valtteri Bottas, who was also key to the negotiation.

The “anti-Red Bull” clause

The most striking detail of the contract is what is known as the “anti-Red Bull” clause. This stipulates that both drivers, Pérez and Bottas, will have equal conditions in terms of car development, access to upgrades, and treatment within the team.

The aim is to avoid situations such as those experienced by Checo at Red Bull in 2024, when Max Verstappen received updates before him, leaving him at a clear competitive disadvantage. With Cadillac, the Mexican sought to protect himself and ensure that his voice carries the same weight in the development of the car.

Cadillac, Checo's last big project

At a press conference in Mexico City, Pérez stated that Cadillac represents his last big challenge in Formula 1. “I see it as my last big project that I can give to F1. Finishing my career at Cadillac would be incredible, and if I can help them become a successful team, that would be the best,” he said.

The 35-year-old driver acknowledged that his time away from the track helped him rediscover his passion for training and healthy living, something he considers essential to facing this new challenge. Cadillac, for its part, does not aspire to win championships in its first year; its initial goal will be to consolidate itself, score points, and lay a solid foundation for the future, with Checo as the central figure.

With this unprecedented clause and an ambitious project, the Mexican driver seeks to write a memorable final chapter in his career in the top category of motorsport.