Sergio Perez 'Surprised' by Speed of F1 Comeback After Year Away

Sergio Perez says he was genuinely surprised by how quickly he found his footing upon returning to Formula 1 after a year on the sidelines, revealing that a single test session in a 2023 Ferrari was all it took to restore his confidence ahead of his 2026 comeback with Cadillac.

Why it matters:

Perez's exit from Red Bull at the end of 2024 followed a difficult campaign that left his immediate future uncertain. His seamless return not only validates Cadillac's decision to sign veteran talent alongside Valtteri Bottas, but also proves that an extended break from the grid does not have to end a driver's career at the highest level—especially with the sport entering a new regulatory era.

The details:

• Perez began his comeback preparations in November 2025, climbing into a 2023-spec Ferrari for his first experience in an F1 car in nearly 12 months.
• Having deliberately avoided racing in any other series during his hiatus, he admitted he was up to speed within just a couple of runs, a realization that gave him the confidence to commit to the new Cadillac project.
• The Mexican has since established himself as the squad's lead driver, with his early-season form reportedly drawing attention from rival teams monitoring his progress.
• He pointed out that the radically different regulations introduced for 2026 effectively reset the competitive order, making his transition back into the cockpit that much smoother.

Looking Ahead:

Perez's strong start suggests his sabbatical may have been a blessing in disguise. As the entire grid continues adapting to the new rulebook, his experience and racecraft could prove invaluable in helping Cadillac develop its package and challenge further up the order in the second half of the year.