The Mexican driver’s return to Formula 1 seems certain, but Cadillac is no longer the only team eyeing the former Red Bull driver — Alpine’s stock is rising.
Sergio Perez is close to making his comeback to Formula 1. After being dropped by the Anglo-Austrian team at the end of last season, the former Red Bull driver is ready to return to the top tier of motorsport — and interest in securing his services is strong. Cadillac remains in pole position, having been in talks with the Mexican’s camp for some time, but no significant developments have emerged.
Last weekend, the American team unveiled its 2026 livery, and rumors suggested Perez might attend the event as a sign of ongoing negotiations — but that didn’t happen. Meanwhile, Alpine has now entered the race for the Mexican driver. The French team recently made a driver change, bringing in Colapinto to replace Doohan starting from the Imola Grand Prix, but is already looking ahead to the 2026 season.
That year represents a major opportunity for Alpine to fight for the championship, and Flavio Briatore has admitted that all efforts are now focused on building the 2026 car. A highly experienced and capable driver could be exactly what the French outfit needs — though it remains to be seen whether Gasly or Colapinto would make way.
For now, it’s all speculation — but it seems increasingly clear that Sergio Perez will return to Formula 1 in 2026. A few weeks ago, his management revealed that three teams had shown interest in him. Two of those teams appear to have been identified. What remains unknown is the identity of the third team interested in signing Sergio Perez.