Sergio Perez unveils Cadillac aim after embarking on 'new F1 chapter'

Sergio Perez has no doubt that he and Valtteri Bottas can turn Cadillac into "a real contender" when they join forces on their return to the F1 grid next season.

Perez and Bottas have been chosen as the dynamic duo to kickstart Cadillac's debut in Formula 1 in 2026, as the sport finally opens its arms to welcome an 11th team on the grid.

Little has been heard or seen of Perez since his exit from Red Bull at the end of last year, the last of his four with the team, serving as rear-gunner to Max Verstappen's run of championship success.

But the experience of Perez and Bottas, with a combined 527 grand prix starts between them, delivering 106 podiums and 16 race wins, has proven an irresistible combination for all inside Cadillac.

In building the team from the ground up, the 35-year-old also sees it as a glorious opportunity to reignite his F1 career.

“Joining the Cadillac Formula 1 team is an incredibly exciting new chapter in my career," said Perez. "From our first conversations, I could sense the passion and determination behind this project.

"It's an honour to be part of building a team that can develop together so that, in time, we will fight at the very front.

"Cadillac is a legendary name in American motorsport, and to help bring such a fantastic company to Formula 1 is a huge responsibility, one I’m confident of taking on.

"I'm proud to be part of such an ambitious and meaningful project from the very beginning.

"I'm really pleased to be part of such a dynamic line-up, and together I believe we can help shape this team into a real contender - the team of the Americas.

"We're counting on support from across the continent and want to make everyone proud."