Guadalajara native and hometown hero Sergio “Checo” Pérez is back in Formula 1 after a year-long hiatus, returning to the grid with a new U.S. team, Cadillac, for the 2026 season. 

The 36-year-old driver, who took a sabbatical in 2025 following his departure from the Red Bull team, leads the brand-new project alongside Finnish teammate Valtteri Bottas, forming one of the most experienced duos on the circuit.

“It’s a beginning, but also a very big challenge,” Pérez told CARAS magazine in an interview. “This is the first time I’ve been part of a team starting from scratch.”

Pérez admitted the time away was exactly what he needed. “That year off was very comforting mentally and emotionally. Being able to spend time with my family — he has four children — and friends filled me with energy for what’s coming.”

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