Perez secures full backing from fellow driver as F1 return looms

14:47, 17 Nov

byTobia Elia

Carlos Sainz places great trust in Sergio Perez as the Mexican’s return to Formula 1 rapidly approaches.

"Second chances in F1 are given to very few drivers, and they are given to those who have really marked a before and after"

- Carlos Sainz

Speaking to Heraldo de Mexico, the Williams driver believes that a second chance in Formula 1 is reserved for truly talented drivers, citing Hulkenberg, Ricciardo, and Perez himself: "I think Checo has already shown everyone his talent and strength, right? As a driver, as an athlete, with the sporting career he has in F1."

"Now he's preparing for a second stage, different, but I think it's very motivating, very encouraging for him. In the end, I think that second chances in F1 are given to very few drivers, and they are given to those who have really marked a before and after, as was the case with Ricciardo or Checo."

He finally added: "In the end, Hulkenberg also got his second chance. They are drivers who have really managed to stand out, and Checo is one of them."

Sergio Perez. Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

Perez sets impressive run in all-black Ferrari amid secret Imola test

After spending a year on the sidelines following Red Bull’s decision not to retain him at the end of last season, the Mexican driver began his new chapter with Cadillac last week during a private test at Imola.

With Cadillac yet to field a car suitable for TPC testing, the former Red Bull racer took to the track in an all-black Ferrari SF-23, logging valuable laps on last Thursday and Friday as he ramps up ahead of the 2026 season.

Perez benefited from Cadillac’s collaboration with the Maranello team, which will provide its power unit to the American manufacturer ahead of General Motors’ Formula 1 debut.

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