Mexican journalist claims nine-time F1 champions could move for Sergio Perez in 2026

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Sergio Perez is weighing up several options for a return to Formula 1 in 2026, two years after his split from Red Bull.

Perez was let go by Red Bull at the end of the 2024 season despite having a deal that ran through to 2026. He has since said that the team regrets their decision, but given his form at the time, it wasn’t all that surprising. Even though Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda also struggled, keeping Perez didn’t make much sense for Red Bull.

After taking the 2025 season off, Perez is looking to get back on the grid next year. That break might work against him though, with other drivers staying active either in different racing series or as reserve drivers within F1 teams.

Even so, there’s been no shortage of interest. Cadillac have reportedly been keen on him since he left Red Bull and still see him as one of their top options for 2026.

Alpine have also shown some interest while they figure out what to do with Franco Colapinto. There have even been some rumours linking Perez to Mercedes, although it would be surprising if they picked him over George Russell or Kimi Antonelli.

And now there’s talk coming out of Mexico that yet another team might be looking to bring Perez back into Formula 1 next year.

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Williams could make a move for Sergio Perez in 2026

Speaking on the ESPN MX YouTube channel, journalist Adal Franco mentioned that Perez is becoming an unexpected candidate for Williams. The team, with nine constructors’ titles and seven drivers’ championships to their name, has reportedly added the 35-year-old to their list of options.

“I did want to tell you something I found out about Checo Perez while on vacation,” said Franco.

“We have to add, I don’t know if it’s a dark horse, but they’re telling me the same thing again, that there are several options in Formula 1.

“Of course, there’s the Cadillac deal, there’s the Alpine deal, which is very strong. But there’s talk of a dark horse that could also have options in the future, as one of the options in the range of possibilities, and it’s Williams.

“Be careful because there could also be an option for Checo within that range of possibilities. I’m not putting him there, far from it, but it adds to the list of suitors for the Mexican.”

Williams linked to Perez as Carlos Sainz’s frustration continues

Sergio Perez’s potential move to Williams would raise a few eyebrows, especially since the team only recently added Carlos Sainz from Ferrari to pair with Alex Albon.

Sainz is currently under contract through 2028, while Albon’s deal runs even longer. But despite the stability on paper, results on track have been one-sided. Albon has collected 54 points so far this year, while Sainz has managed just 16.

If the Spaniard looks for a way out before then and Williams wants an immediate replacement, there are few experienced options available. For now, Cadillac and Alpine remain Perez’s most realistic options for next season.