Sergio Perez has made it clear that he will not interfere in Cadillac’s decision over its second driver for the 2027 Formula 1 season, despite maintaining a positive relationship with Valtteri Bottas.
The Mexican recently secured his own future in Formula 1 after extending his contract with Cadillac until at least the end of 2029. However, the situation is considerably less certain for his Finnish teammate, whose position remains under consideration as the team evaluates its options.
Perez believes the responsibility rests firmly with team principal Marcin Budkowski, who must determine which driver offers Cadillac the strongest combination for its next stage of development.
Speaking ahead of his home Grand Prix in Mexico City, Perez acknowledged that Bottas had demonstrated considerable speed, making the decision anything but straightforward.
“I also work very well with Valtteri,” Perez explained.
“I think he’s had some really bad luck in a few races. He showed very strong pace in Austin, so it’s not an easy decision for the team.”
Those comments suggest Perez recognises the difficulties surrounding Cadillac’s driver selection, although he is determined to leave the final decision to the people running the team.
Bottas’ performances complicate Cadillac’s options
Bottas has experienced a challenging return to Formula 1 with Cadillac, with the American outfit currently struggling at the back of the constructors’ standings.
The Finn’s experience is undoubtedly valuable to a new operation, particularly given his previous relationships with Mercedes and Sauber, where he spent several seasons before leaving the sport.
However, experience alone will not necessarily guarantee his place for 2027.
His recent performances, particularly in Austin, have provided encouragement, while inconsistent results and the team’s lack of competitiveness have made it difficult to establish a clear picture of his potential.
Cadillac must also consider its longer-term development objectives when deciding how to approach its driver lineup.
Perez, meanwhile, insists that he does not want to become involved in discussions that are ultimately outside his responsibility.
“I don’t want that, because it’s not my decision. That’s why we have someone like Marcin who looks at all the data and information and will ultimately make that decision based on what he believes is best for the future of the team,” the Mexican added.
Colton Herta adds another dimension
The situation is further complicated by Cadillac’s existing driver options and its ambitions to develop talent for the future.
Colton Herta, who is working towards establishing himself in Formula 1, was given an opportunity during first practice at the Mexican Grand Prix.
Bottas had arrived in Mexico feeling unwell and subsequently missed Thursday’s media commitments, creating an opportunity for the American reserve driver to take part in the opening session.
Herta does not yet have a confirmed race contract for the following season, but his involvement demonstrates that Cadillac is continuing to assess its available options.
The team therefore has several considerations beyond simply retaining its current pairing.
Perez prepares for emotional home race
While Cadillac’s driver situation continues to attract attention, Perez has another important occasion ahead of him.
The 36-year-old is one of Mexico’s biggest sporting figures, with approximately 100,000 fans attending a promotional event in Mexico City to see him ahead of his home Grand Prix.
The reception has clearly meant a great deal to the former Red Bull driver, particularly given the contrast between his previous achievements and Cadillac’s current position.
“I used to come here and be able to finish on the podium or win races,” Perez reflected.
“People know that’s not going to happen this time, and yet they’re all here.”
The Mexican Grand Prix will also mark Perez’s 300th Grand Prix start on home soil, adding another significant milestone to an already emotional weekend.
Cadillac may currently be last in the constructors’ standings without a point, but the team is building towards a much longer-term project.
For Bottas, however, the immediate priority is considerably more personal: convincing Cadillac that his experience and performances make him the right choice for 2027.
Perez has made his position clear. The decision belongs to Budkowski, and the Mexican intends to stay out of it.
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