Sergio Perez is set for a full-time return to Formula 1 in 2026 with Cadillac. His former Force India teammate, Nico Hulkenberg, believes a sabbatical could significantly benefit Perez.
Why it matters
Perez was released by Red Bull Racing at the end of the 2024 season, leaving him without a seat for 2025 before his planned Cadillac debut. A break from the intense F1 calendar could provide a much-needed mental and physical reset.
The big picture
Hulkenberg himself experienced a similar situation, spending three years out of a full-time F1 seat after 2019 before returning. He completed three Grands Prix for Racing Point and Aston Martin during this period, even teaming up with Perez at the 2020 Eifel Grand Prix.
What Hulkenberg said
"I think it’s very personal and independent. Everyone is different," Hulkenberg told GPblog. "For me personally, it was very positive and refreshing. I had almost three proper years away, which is a long time. But it’s what I needed at the time. And again, I can only talk for myself. It was very positive, in hindsight."
What's next
Perez now faces a year away from the grid before his anticipated return. This break, as highlighted by Hulkenberg, presents a unique opportunity for him to regroup and prepare for his new chapter with Cadillac.