Checo Pérez is back!
Sergio “Checo” Pérez Mendoza was born on January 26, 1990, in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. From a young age, he displayed an undeniable passion for speed and competition. At just six years old, he began racing go-karts in his hometown. His father, Antonio Pérez Garibay, recognized his son’s talent and supported him as Checo quickly rose through the ranks of national karting competitions.
By his teenage years, Checo had moved to Europe to pursue his dream of becoming a Formula 1 driver. Competing in various junior categories, including the British Formula 3 Championship and GP2, Pérez steadily built a reputation for his aggressive driving style and ability to adapt quickly to new challenges.
Checo’s Formula 1 career path
Checo Pérez made his Formula 1 debut in 2011 with Sauber, instantly catching the attention of fans and experts with his daring overtakes and tire management skills. Over the years, he drove for several teams, including McLaren, Force India (later Racing Point), and eventually Red Bull Racing.
During his time in F1, Pérez developed a reputation as one of the grid’s most consistent and resilient drivers. He became particularly known for turning difficult situations into strong finishes, often climbing through the field with clever race strategies. His ability to extend tire life gave him a unique edge in long and demanding races.
Career highlights and winnings
Checo’s first Formula 1 victory came in 2020 at the Sakhir Grand Prix with Racing Point, a race that cemented his place in the sport’s history books. It was an emotional moment, as Pérez had started at the back of the grid after early contact but managed to claw his way up to the top spot—a testament to his perseverance.
He followed that up with one of his most iconic wins at the 2022 Singapore Grand Prix, a race remembered for Pérez’s exceptional tire management and strategic brilliance. Starting behind several competitors, he executed a flawless strategy to take the lead and cross the finish line first. This victory was particularly meaningful as it came against a highly competitive field and demonstrated his ability to perform under intense pressure.
His time with Red Bull Racing further expanded his list of achievements. Teaming up with Max Verstappen from 2021 to 2024, Pérez played a crucial role in helping Red Bull secure multiple Constructors’ Championships. Although Verstappen often dominated the spotlight, Checo proved himself a reliable teammate and a driver capable of pulling off impressive podiums and victories under pressure.
By 2024, Pérez had accumulated multiple wins and dozens of podium finishes, making him the most successful Mexican driver in Formula 1 history.
Challenges and setbacks
Checo’s career has not been without its difficulties. Driving in the shadow of Verstappen at Red Bull meant constant comparisons and intense pressure. While he managed several standout performances, inconsistency at times raised questions about his long-term future with the team.
In 2025, Pérez found himself without a seat, forced to take a season away from Formula 1. For many drivers, such a setback could have signaled the end of a career. However, Pérez’s resilience and popularity among fans kept his name circulating in paddock conversations.
The Cadillac announcement – a new beginning
In August 2025, a major surprise shook the motorsport world: Sergio “Checo” Pérez was officially announced as a new driver for Cadillac’s upcoming Formula 1 team, set to debut in 2026. The announcement was made in style, featuring none other than actor Keanu Reeves, who welcomed Pérez and his future teammate Valtteri Bottas in an epic promotional video.
Cadillac, entering Formula 1 for the very first time, wanted an experienced driver capable of both developing their car and competing at the highest level. Checo fit the profile perfectly. His experience across five previous teams and his proven ability to adapt to different environments made him the ideal choice.
Pérez himself shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, thanking fans for their unwavering support and declaring:
“This is not just my comeback—it’s the return of a whole country’s passion, the strength of a continent, and millions of hearts. We are back.”
Keanu Reeves and the Cadillac documentary
Adding even more excitement to the announcement, Cadillac revealed that Keanu Reeves will star in and narrate a documentary covering the team’s journey into Formula 1. The film will chronicle Cadillac’s efforts to build a competitive car from scratch and document Pérez’s and Bottas’s role in shaping the team’s future. With Hollywood flair and motorsport grit, the project has already generated buzz worldwide.
What lies ahead for Checo Pérez
The move to Cadillac marks Checo’s sixth Formula 1 team and represents both a challenge and an opportunity. He will not only be the face of a new project but also carry the responsibility of leading the team’s development efforts. Partnering with Bottas, another experienced driver, Cadillac has a solid foundation to surprise fans and competitors alike.
For Pérez, this is more than just a return to racing—it’s a second chance to write the next chapter of his career. With millions of fans across Mexico and beyond cheering him on, his journey with Cadillac could redefine his legacy in the sport.
