Cadillac, the safest bet

The arrival of Checo Pérez to Cadillac F1 for 2026 was not a decision made lightly. The new American team, backed by General Motors, sought experience and leadership for its debut in the top category. That’s why they chose Pérez and Finnish driver Valtteri Bottas, two competitors with solid careers in teams such as Red Bull, Mercedes, McLaren, and Sauber.

Between them, they boast over 500 Grand Prix appearances and multiple victories, providing stability for a project starting from scratch. Cadillac offered long-term contracts and a leading role for both drivers, elements that ultimately convinced the Mexican star after a year away from F1.

Alpine, the option that faded

Beyond Cadillac, Checo Pérez was also considered by Alpine. The French squad was dealing with uncertainty regarding Franco Colapinto’s continuity, while Pierre Gasly was already confirmed for 2026. However, the lack of clarity in its decisions and the inability to guarantee Pérez a secure seat made Alpine lose ground.

Sources close to Pérez revealed that both he and Bottas feared waiting for Alpine could leave them without firm options. The risk of extending another year away from the grid was simply too great, while Cadillac offered immediate security.

Other names in the mix

Other drivers such as Daniel Ricciardo, Mick Schumacher, and Zhou Guanyu were also linked to the market. The latter had ties to Cadillac’s team boss Graeme Lowdon, but none of these possibilities materialized. Ricciardo, despite his popularity in the United States, ruled out a return; Schumacher failed to convince in his previous stints, while Zhou remained just a potential candidate.

A new beginning for Checo

Ultimately, the appeal of starting a project from scratch, with the backing of a major automaker and guaranteed continuity, pushed Checo Pérez to commit to Cadillac. Pairing up with an experienced driver like Valtteri Bottas reinforces the idea that the team is aiming for stability and long-term results.

Checo Pérez will make his official debut with Cadillac at the 2026 Australian Grand Prix, beginning a new chapter in his career with the mission of reclaiming the spotlight and proving he still has plenty left to give in Formula 1.