Max Verstappen backs Sergio Perez for F1 return

Max Verstappen has backed former Red Bull team-mate Sergio Perez for an F1 comeback next season.

The F1 field is set to expand to 22 cars for the first time in 10 years as Cadillac forms its own team, generating two additional seats up for grabs.

Cadillac has signalled its intention to sign experienced F1 names to help it navigate its first years on the grid.

With 281 grand prix starts to his name, Perez sits eighth on the all-time list of the most experienced drivers, placing him as an ideal candidate.

When asked if he thinks Perez is a good option for Cadillac, Verstappen told select media including RacingNews365: “I think so. 

“I think Checo has always been very strong. He's had a few difficult moments with us, but on the other hand, it's clear that's often the case with us.”

Perez departed the Red Bull team at the end of the 2024 campaign after a torrid campaign in the seat alongside Verstappen.

Despite his challenges at Red Bull, Perez's track record from his previous teams was hailed by Verstappen.

"I always got along very well with Checo,” the Dutchman said. 

“As long as he is motivated to drive, then I think that is absolutely, even with such a new team, a good choice. 

“Because if you look at how Checo drove at Force India, Racing Point or whatever you called it, he always picked up the points anyway.”