Checo has spoken with several teams about returning to F1: Lawrence Barretto

Since leaving Formula 1 (F1) at the end of the 2024 season, Sergio "Checo" Pérez has been linked to a possible return to the top flight of motorsport, something that looks increasingly closer due to the words of journalist Lawrence Barretto.

The British journalist revealed in his column that Checo Pérez is a top priority for Cadillac, the team that will make its F1 debut in 2026. He also stated that the American team wasn't the only one to approach the Mexican to consider him for next year.

Barretto's information is seen as fact, as he works for the official F1 channel and is also familiar with everything that happens inside and outside the paddock.

"Sergio Pérez is one of the leading contenders. Given the magnitude of the challenge Cadillac faces in building a new Formula 1 team from scratch and its ambition to be as strong as possible, it's certain that at least one of the Cadillac seats, if not both, will go to drivers with F1 experience." the British explained in his column.

Given the need for experience in their seats, Checo is ideally suited for this position, having raced on more than 200 F1 circuits.

"That's why they have a strong interest in Sergio Pérez, who has 285 Grand Prix starts. The Mexican knows how to win, having finished on the podium six times, and his best result was second place in the Drivers' Championship during his time at Red Bull." Lawrence pointed out.

The Briton also acknowledged that Checo's strong performances on lower-level teams give him an extra edge to be considered for one of the team's seats.

"Checo is renowned for his responsiveness and excellent tire management, while his performances with the midfield Force India/Racing Point team highlighted his ability to consistently get the best out of a package that exceeded his expectations."

Another team pursuing the Mexican for next season was the French team Alpine, which has yet to solidify its project.

"My sources tell me the Mexican has spoken with several teams, including Cadillac and Alpine, about returning to the series next season. Checo Pérez is eager to return to the grid, And that motivation could be very attractive to teams that need a driver."

The official announcement is still pending. Cadillac's statement regarding Checo's arrival at the team to be there for its debut season in 2026, but it is exciting that the Mexican could be present in F1 next year.

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