Sergio Perez Credits Carlos Slim as the 'Second Father' Behind His F1 Career

Sergio Perez has attributed the longevity and success of his Formula 1 career to the unwavering support of Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim. Describing Slim as a "second father," the Cadillac driver emphasizes that his journey from a young prospect to a veteran of the grid was made possible by a partnership that transcended simple financial sponsorship.

Why it matters:

In a sport where driver careers are often volatile and dependent on short-term contracts, Perez's trajectory serves as a rare example of a lifelong support system. The backing of the Slim family through Escuderia Telmex didn't just provide the capital necessary to compete in Europe; it created a stable foundation that allowed Perez to navigate multiple team transitions and maintain his seat at the highest level of motorsport for over a decade.

The details:

• Early Development: The relationship began in Perez's childhood, leading to his induction into Escuderia Telmex, a program designed to elevate Latin American racing talent.
• The European Pipeline: Slim's funding was critical during Perez's formative years in Formula BMW, British Formula 3, and GP2, removing the financial barriers that often sideline talented drivers from non-traditional racing hubs.
• Strategic Integration: When Perez debuted with Sauber in 2011, the support evolved into commercial partnerships. Telmex and other America Movil brands (Telcel, Claro) signed deals directly with teams, ensuring Perez's commercial viability across Sauber, McLaren, Force India, Racing Point, and Red Bull.
• Beyond the Funding: Perez highlights that Slim's role was deeply personal, providing mentorship and life advice that helped him manage the psychological pressures of the F1 paddock.

What's next:

As the circus heads toward the Mexico City Grand Prix, Perez is preparing for a historic milestone: his 300th Formula 1 start. After missing the event last year, Perez is set to celebrate this achievement in front of his home crowd, marking a poignant moment for both the driver and the patrons who funded his ascent to the pinnacle of racing.