After his departure from Red Bull at the end of 2024, many thought that Sergio Checo Pérez’s career in Formula 1 was close to an end. However, in August 2025, what Mexican fans had been waiting for was confirmed: the driver from Guadalajara will return to the grid in 2026 as the main figure of Cadillac Racing, the U.S. team that will officially debut in the FIA World Championship.
The agreement, according to specialized media, contemplates an initial two-year contract with an option for an additional year, subject to performance. In this way, Checo not only extends his career in F1, but also becomes the most visible Latin face of an ambitious project: to take Cadillac to compete against giants such as Ferrari, Mercedes and McLaren.
Checo Perez’s salary at Cadillac
According to press reports, Checo Perez will receive around US$14 million per year in his new contract.
This figure places him in the top 10 of the highest paid F1 drivers for the 2026 season.
Although this amount is much less than what figures in sports such as the NBA or NFL earn, it is still a significant salary in motorsports.
In addition to this income, personal sponsorships, commercial agreements and performance bonuses could raise his total annual earnings considerably.
Inspirational track record
Checo Perez made his Formula 1 debut in 2011 and has achieved 6 wins and more than 30 podiums in 281 Grand Prix races.
His time with teams such as Sauber, McLaren, Force India, Racing Point and Red Bull established him as one of the most consistent drivers on the grid.
Checo Pérez will earn around 14 million dollars annually in his new contract
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With Red Bull he reached his peak, winning key races and helping the team to constructors’ titles.
His departure at the end of 2024 was due to the renewal of lineups.
However, his name remained in the market thanks to his experience, consistency and, above all, his enormous popularity in Mexico and in the U.S. Latino community.
Cadillac and the U.S. bet
Cadillac’s entry into F1 is part of an effort to increase the U.S. presence in global motorsport.
At a time when the sport is booming in North America thanks to the Grand Prix in Miami, Austin and, more recently, Las Vegas.
Checo Perez will be the centerpiece of this adventure:
A Latin American driver with global prestige, capable of attracting sponsors and pulling crowds in a key market such as the United States.
His arrival represents a bridge between Mexican fans and the growing F1 fan base in the US.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
