Perez’s F1 return takes shape with Ferrari test at Imola

In preparation for his return to the Formula 1 grid for the 2026 season, Sergio Perez will get behind the wheel of a Ferrari in a Testing of a Previous Car (TPC).

The Mexican will drive for Cadillac next season, along with Valtteri Bottas, as the two experienced drivers make up the lineup for the American's team debut in the pinnacle of motorsport.

To prepare for their entry into Formula 1, team principal Graeme Lowdon explained that a deal could be made with Ferrari to use their car for training purposes rather than for development, with the Scuderia also set to supply Cadillac with power units and gearboxes until 2028.

Now, at the Mexico City Grand Prix, Perez, who is working as an ambassador for Cadillac at his home Grand Prix this weekend, has stated that he will get some miles done in a Ferrari car.

Sergio Perez will be alongside Valtteri Bottas in 2026 when Cadillac joins the grid - Photo: Cadillac

"Well, as much as I train, I need to have time, kilometres in the car, because in the end, they are very specific exercises and muscles that you train in the car," the Mexican explained.

"I'm going to have two days in Imola, which is going to help me a lot. But, we're doing well [in preparation]."

When asked what year of Ferrari car he would use, Perez said: "I think 2023."

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Cadillac building team for 2026

Along with Perez and Bottas as their drivers for next season, Lowdon as their team principal, and CEO Dan Towriss, Cadillac have been assembling a strong team for the debut season in F1.

Pat Symonds serves as the team's executive engineering consultant, and former Audi Formula Racing chief executive, Adam Baker, joined the American team at the end of September to become the chief operating officer of the team's engine factory.

Along with this, former Miami Grand Prix president Tyler Epp was also brought in to become Cadillac's global head of commercial strategy, with Towriss calling him a "visionary".

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