Sergio Perez's standing in Formula 1 is undergoing a remarkable revival in 2025, even as he remains off the grid, according to two-time world champion Emerson Fittipaldi.
The Brazilian F1 legend expressed regret over the end of Perez's tenure at Red Bull but is optimistic about the Mexican's potential return with Cadillac in 2026.
"Checo Perez was a great representative of us (Latin Americans) but he wasn't so understood," Fittipaldi, 78, told AS Mexico.
Perez was dropped by Red Bull for underperforming and replaced by Liam Lawson at the start of 2025. However, the young New Zealander's stint was short-lived and lacklustre, leading to Yuki Tsunoda taking his place.
"This year we're seeing the test with drivers who are with Max Verstappen, and in my opinion they're worse than Checo," Fittipaldi stated.
Highlighting Perez's achievements, he added: "Perez won in Monaco, he won in Baku - very difficult city circuits - and he's very fast. We're seeing the difficulties now. Red Bull is changing drivers to see who gets close to Verstappen, but Checo was the best."
Fellow F1 icon and Cadillac advisor Mario Andretti confirmed that Perez is a candidate for a 2026 seat. "The driver situation is being evaluated, and you basically look at who's available based on the level of experience you need," Andretti said.
"Checo Perez fits the bill. He's one of the candidates that you could potentially approach, but for the moment I'm not in a position to say more."
Fittipaldi strongly endorsed a Perez-Cadillac partnership, noting: "General Motors is coming into Formula 1 with the Cadillac brand and a very serious program, and for sure Checo is a very strong candidate."
Even Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, who made the call to replace Perez, acknowledged his value. "Obviously, it was a tough year for Checo last year, but it's good to see a possible return is in the works," Horner said.
"He's a very experienced driver and a real winner. He's a very popular driver. It would be good to see him back on the grid."
