Sauber Formula 1 driver Nico Hulkenberg has opened up on Sergio Perez’s F1 return with Cadillac in 2026. The German driver believes Perez’s short break away from the championship will have been “positive and refreshing” ahead of his comeback.
Hulkenberg himself spent three years away from a full-time F1 seat between 2020 and 2022, before returning with Haas in 2023. He feels that Perez, who left Red Bull at the end of 2024, will benefit from the reset and return stronger when Cadillac enters the grid in 2026.
“Yeah, I think it’s slightly different [to me]. I obviously had quite a lot of time out. Three years instead of one. It all depends how competitive their package will be also. You know, it’s all linked to that.
“But I think it was probably positive and refreshing for him, you know, to disconnect and to watch it all, you know, with some good distance from the comfort of your couch at home. It’s quite an interesting experience.
“So, I’m sure it was good for him and that he feels… Well, I know that he feels charged and still ready to go.”
Perez’s Journey from Sauber to Cadillac
Sergio Perez made his Formula 1 debut in 2011 with Sauber, quickly making his mark as one of the most talented midfield drivers. Over the course of his 14-year career, the Mexican driver represented McLaren, Force India/Racing Point, and Red Bull. His time with Red Bull brought him multiple race wins, but he lost his seat with the team at the end of 2024.
After stepping away from F1, Perez remained clear that he would only return for the right project. That opportunity has now come with Cadillac, which announced its official entry into Formula 1 from the 2026 season. Perez will lead the new team alongside Valtteri Bottas, adding star power to the 11th entrant on the grid.
Hulkenberg on Cadillac and Audi’s Arrival
With Cadillac joining the championship, Sauber will simultaneously transition to Audi in 2026. Hulkenberg acknowledged that the sport is heading for a major reset with the new regulations, making it difficult to predict which teams will succeed.
Speaking ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix, Hulkenberg said, “Well, I hope that we’re in front, but, you know, that’s pure speculation and everything. Not just with Cadillac and Audi, with everyone. It’s such a big change, such a big reset. I don’t like speculating about that, especially just against one team.
“There’s 11 teams next year and everyone is obviously working hard right now to put the best car and package on the road, but you just need to keep focused, work hard and see what happens.”
Both Perez and Hulkenberg know the challenges of returning to the grid after time away. While Hulkenberg’s experience was longer, he insists Perez’s one-year absence will be more of a boost than a setback. With Cadillac preparing to debut in 2026, fans eagerly await to see how the Mexican driver adapts to the new era of Formula 1.
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