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A new beginning for Sergio Perez has him looking refreshed, energised, and thrilled more than he ever was at Red Bull.
After a year away from Formula 1, Sergio Perez is making his return, this time as one of the drivers for the debuting Cadillac team.
Despite concerns about his age and time away, Perez is confident about Cadillac’s prospects and what he can deliver for the team.
What do you expect from Sergio Perez in the 2026 F1 season?
Perez’s pre-season testing wasn’t very impressive, but the Mexican driver seems ready to go after what was a very difficult Red Bull stint.
The weight of no longer being with Red Bull now off his shoulders, Perez reportedly looks relaxed and happier with Cadillac than he ever did with Red Bull, according to Anthony Davidson.
READ MORE: Sergio Perez influence saluted as Cadillac’s plans for £1.5bn market laid bare
Sergio Perez seen smiling in a way not seen since before Red Bull stint
During an appearance on Ted Kravitz’s Melbourne Podbook, Anthony Davidson spoke about his brief interaction with Sergio Perez ahead of the Australian Grand Prix.
Davidson noted that he hadn’t seen a smile on Perez’s face this wide since before his time with Red Bull, showing just how much of a toll the experience had taken on him.
“I haven’t seen that smile on Checo’s face in a long time. I think since before he joined Red Bull. So it’s great to see both drivers happy.”
Rachel Brookes said the same for Perez’s teammate Valtteri Bottas, who looked enthusiastic and in great spirits during the media day press conference.
“He (Bottas) was so great in the press conference when he was asked about his top three for the championship, and he said Fernando, Lance, and George because they were sandbagging.”
“But he’s in a great mood, and it’s so lovely to see him back here… He’s in such a great mood. He said the year away made him really appreciate the sport, and it’s brought him back with a new energy…”
What do you expect from Valtteri Bottas in the 2026 F1 season?
READ MORE: Valtteri Bottas is adamant that the new F1 regulations will be ‘much better’ than people think
Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas looking to cement Cadillac’s place in F1 debut
Even though neither Sergio Perez nor Valtteri Bottas are expected to win many races and compete for podiums this season, it cannot be understated just how important their role is this season.
Being the inaugural drivers for a debuting F1 team is an immense amount of pressure, as both drivers have to deliver and show that they, along with the team, have some serious potential.
This involves being in the mix for points as often as possible. Perez is reportedly more concerned about this pressure than Bottas, but no doubt that this expectation is on both their minds.
Cadillac are going to want to make an immediate impact in their debut season, and both Perez and Bottas are vital to any success they have.
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