Sergio “Checo” Pérez has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 world, delivering a stunning surprise to fans and Cadillac’s team principal just days before the Bahrain Grand Prix. In a cryptic yet electrifying moment, the Mexican racing icon uttered nine words that left everyone buzzing: “I’m back, and Cadillac’s my new home.” These words, spoken with his signature calm confidence, hinted at a monumental career move. Pérez then dropped a bombshell, claiming he has officially signed a jaw-dropping $150 million contract with Cadillac, the newest team set to join the F1 grid in 2026. The announcement, if true, marks a dramatic twist in Pérez’s storied career and a bold statement for Cadillac’s ambitions.
The surprise didn’t stop with words. Pérez gifted a sleek, custom-designed helmet to Cadillac’s team principal, Graeme Lowdon, and a matching one to a lucky fan at a Bahrain event. The helmets, adorned with vibrant Mexican colors and Cadillac’s logo, symbolized his apparent commitment to the American team. Fans erupted on social media, with one X post calling it “Checo’s way of saying he’s all in!” The gesture fueled speculation about his future, especially after his tumultuous exit from Red Bull in 2024, where he struggled to match teammate Max Verstappen’s pace.
Pérez’s claim of a $150 million deal has raised eyebrows, as Cadillac has yet to confirm the signing. Sources close to the team, however, suggest talks with Pérez are “advanced,” with Lowdon praising his experience as vital for their debut season. The Mexican’s 14 years in F1, including six Grand Prix wins and a runner-up finish in the 2023 Drivers’ Championship, make him a prime candidate to lead Cadillac’s charge. His marketability in North America, backed by sponsors like Heineken 0.0, adds to his appeal. Yet, some skeptics, like F1 analyst Peter Windsor, argue Cadillac should avoid Pérez, citing his struggles under pressure at Red Bull.[](https://www.planetf1.com/news/sergio-perez-cadillac-f1-2026-return-talks-advanced)[](https://www.f1oversteer.com/news/sergio-perez-set-to-drive-for-one-formula-1-team-in-2026-after-signing-lucrative-sponsorship-contract/)[](https://www.planetf1.com/news/two-reasons-why-cadillac-f1-will-not-sign-sergio-perez-emerge)
For Pérez, this move could be a redemption arc. After a challenging 2024, where he scored just nine points in his final eight races, the 35-year-old is hungry to prove doubters wrong. He’s hinted at needing a “motivating project” to return, and Cadillac’s fresh start might be it. The team’s Ferrari-powered cars and Andretti Global partnership signal serious intent, though victories may be a long-term goal.[](https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article/exclusive-sergio-perez-red-bull-f1-next-move-return.5fwYLpfTKv3xY9C3H8li61)[](https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/sergio-perez-reveals-conditions-for-f1-return-as-cadillac-rumours-fly/10708915/)[](https://www.marca.com/en/f1/2025/03/26/67e3f29fca4741f65f8b45c4.html)
As the Bahrain Grand Prix looms, Pérez’s bold claim and heartfelt gift have ignited excitement. Whether the $150 million contract is real or a strategic play, one thing is clear: Checo Pérez is ready to write a new chapter, and F1 fans can’t wait to see him back on the grid, steering Cadillac into the future.
