Sergio Pérez remains one of Formula 1’s most experienced drivers, but his future was uncertain following Red Bull’s decision to let him go at the close of 2024.

According to Alpine’s advisor Flavio Briatore, Pérez reached out to explore opportunities within the French team, indicating his intent to secure a seat in the 2026 grid. At that time, Alpine had no available openings since Pierre Gasly had extended his contract through 2028.

While the second seat had been in flux—with Jack Doohan and then Franco Colapinto stepping in at various points—the team was not in a position to offer Pérez a confirmed ride, leading to limited options for the Mexican driver. 

Transition to Cadillac: A New Chapter

Facing a crowded market in Formula 1 and with Alpine unable to provide a firmer offer, Pérez ultimately chose to sign with Cadillac—a team making its F1 debut in 2026 alongside veteran Valtteri Bottas.

This move marks Pérez’s return to the paddock after a full year away, giving him a fresh platform to compete at the highest level though outside the traditional F1 powerhouses.

Cadillac’s announcement signaled serious ambitions to establish themselves quickly in the sport, banking on experience like Pérez’s and Bottas’s to lay the groundwork for success. 

Alpine’s Future and F1 Driver Market Dynamics

Alpine’s driver strategy highlights the ongoing challenges mid-tier teams face balancing youth development with experienced talent acquisition.

Pierre Gasly’s contract security contrasts with uncertainty around the second seat, which Alpine has been testing through rotational drives by Doohan and Colapinto without solidifying a long-term solution.

Pérez’s journey reflects the highly competitive and complex nature of the driver market as new entrants like Cadillac reshape Formula 1’s landscape ahead of the 2026 season.