As the Formula One landscape shifts, Sergio Perez is emerging as a potential candidate for a race seat at Alpine for the 2026 season. This development follows reports from the U.K.’s Daily Mirror, which highlighted that initial discussions have taken place between Perez’s camp and Alpine regarding a possible collaboration. This news comes on the heels of ESPN's earlier report that Perez was in talks with Cadillac, the new team slated to join the F1 grid next season.
Perez, who has been sidelined since being dropped by Red Bull at the end of 2024, is eager to explore his options for a return to racing. After securing four podium finishes in the first five races of the 2024 season, his performance dwindled significantly, managing only one top-five finish in the remaining 19 races. The decision to part ways with Perez came after Red Bull opted to replace him with Liam Lawson, who has since been succeeded by Yuki Tsunoda.
Now 35 years old, Perez has spent the time away from the track focusing on family life in Guadalajara, Mexico. However, he remains committed to returning to Formula One under the right circumstances. "A comeback would be very attractive if I found a project that motivates me fully, where the team believes in me and where they appreciate my career, my experience and everything I can bring to a team," Perez stated, reflecting on his desire to find a suitable opportunity.
While Cadillac currently appears to be the frontrunner in discussions due to its status as the 11th team entering the grid, Perez's representatives have also engaged with Alpine. The team recently benched young driver Jack Doohan in favor of Franco Colapinto for at least the next five races, indicating a shift in their driver evaluation strategy. This change could open the door for Perez, especially considering the team’s need for experienced drivers.
Alpine's executive advisor, Flavio Briatore, has had conversations with Perez's camp, suggesting that the team is at least considering the prospect of signing the experienced driver. Although Alpine is not currently viewing Perez as their leading candidate, they remain open to the idea. The team’s immediate focus is on assessing their existing drivers, including Colapinto, who has stepped in for Doohan, and Paul Aron, another young driver on their reserve list.
In the backdrop of these discussions, Perez's long-time supporter, Carlos Slim Domit, remains engaged in his career decisions. Slim, who is the chairman of America Movil, has been instrumental in Perez's journey through his backing and influence within the industry. His presence at the Miami Grand Prix, combined with meetings about Perez's future, underscores the ongoing support for the driver as he navigates this transitional period.
As the 2026 season approaches, the dynamics of driver placements are becoming increasingly critical. Perez's extensive experience, including his successful tenure with Red Bull, where he achieved six wins and 39 podium finishes over 281 races, positions him as a valuable asset for any team. However, he faces a ticking clock, as he will turn 36 in January 2026, making it imperative for him to secure a competitive seat soon.
Looking ahead, the potential partnership with Alpine could provide Perez with a more immediate competitive environment compared to Cadillac, which is still establishing itself in the sport. The allure of racing for a team with a stronger historical performance record may be appealing to Perez, who is keen to make a significant impact upon his return.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Perez remains focused and determined. He continues to train and prepare for a comeback, showcasing his commitment to returning to the grid. As negotiations progress, the F1 community will be watching closely to see where Perez lands for the upcoming season.
Ultimately, whether it be with Alpine or Cadillac, Sergio Perez’s next steps will be pivotal not just for his career but also for the teams vying for his experience and talents. The coming weeks are likely to be critical as both Perez and the teams evaluate their options, setting the stage for what could be a thrilling 2026 Formula One season.
