Perez to Sharpen F1 Skills with 2023 Ferrari ahead of Cadillac‘s 2026 Entry
LOS ANGELES, CA – Sergio Perez will soon be back behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car, preparing for Cadillac’s highly anticipated 2026 entry into the sport. The Mexican driver confirmed he will test a 2023 Ferrari chassis as part of Cadillac’s on-track preparations, following simulator work scheduled for next week.
Perez, speaking at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles after throwing out the ceremonial first pitch, outlined his upcoming schedule. “Next week I’ll be in Charlotte first and then in England,” he said. “I’ll test the simulator, but after that, I plan to drive an F1 car.”
The testing is crucial for Perez to regain peak physical condition.”I need to start preparing to be ready early next year, as I’ve lost tone in my neck and need to regain full functionality to drive an F1 car in the best possible way,” he explained.
While not officially announced, sources indicate the car will be a 2023 Ferrari, provided to Cadillac through their engine supply agreement with Ferrari. This collaboration allows the American manufacturer to gain valuable track data as they develop their own power unit for the 2026 season, when new engine regulations come into effect.
perez, who concluded his tenure with Red Bull Racing at the end of 2024, expressed his enthusiasm for the new opportunity. “I want to go back and enjoy it because the last few years have been tough,” he stated. “I want to return to a Formula 1 that I enjoy and work with a team that has the same enthusiasm as me.”
Meanwhile,reports from the F1 paddock suggest that Valtteri Bottas,also joining Cadillac for 2026,has been prevented by Mercedes from participating in any testing utilizing the Ferrari chassis this year.
