Cadillac Signs Sergio Perez for F1 Debut: Insights from Team Leadership
Cadillac has confirmed the signing of Sergio Perez for its inaugural Formula 1 season, quelling initial concerns regarding his motivation following a disappointing exit from Red Bull at the end of 2024. Perez, who ended his time at Red Bull with just 33 points in the final 13 races, had previously extended his contract but was released after a lackluster performance.
In discussions leading to his signing, Cadillac F1 Team and TWG Motorsports CEO Dan Towriss expressed satisfaction with Perez’s commitment to the team and the sport. "We had extensive conversations regarding his year off, and understanding his desire to return to Formula 1 was crucial," said Towriss. "He exceeded our expectations and answered all our concerns."
Cadillac’s decision to hire Perez was also influenced by the broader context of Red Bull’s driver lineup. While Max Verstappen secured the drivers’ championship, Perez’s struggles were compounded by the challenges faced by teammates Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda. "We analyzed not just individual results but also the performance dynamics at Red Bull," Towriss added, highlighting the difficulties drivers faced in the second seat.
The evaluation process was detailed, incorporating insights from past experiences and data points from Sauber, as well as feedback from Red Bull personnel. Towriss emphasized the importance of this thorough approach. "Given the complexities of the situation, our research was extensive," he stated. "Ultimately, we feel confident in Checo’s determination to prove himself and move beyond last season."
As Cadillac prepares for its entry into Formula 1, the team expects Perez, alongside teammate Valtteri Bottas, to bring competitive edge and experience to the grid.
