Source:REUTERS/Amr Alfiky
[Saba Sports News] After facing intense criticism and a career low, Sergio Perez has responded defiantly to the mockery and entered a new phase in his professional journey. With the conclusion of the 2025 season, he has not only shed the awkward comparisons to reserve drivers but also showcased strong performance during his first test with his new team, Cadillac.Reflecting on the past two years, Perez’s trajectory has been tumultuous. In 2023, he secured the runner-up spot in the Drivers’ Championship, despite a significant points gap with Max Verstappen. However, his fortunes plummeted in 2024, where he scored just 152 points throughout the year and failed to make it to the podium, which directly contributed to Red Bull losing the Constructors’ Championship. Although he secured a contract extension at the beginning of the year, his lackluster performance led to a split from the team by the end of the season.His replacement, Liam Lawson, struggled in his three races and a sprint race, failing to advance past Q1, which seemed to dent his confidence. The upcoming driver, Yuki Tsunoda, only managed to score 30 points before also being replaced. Consequently, many articles emerged on social media defending Perez, with some posting memes stating, “Maybe I was too harsh on you.” In response, Perez firmly stated, “That’s for sure.”This comment, both sharp and light-hearted, shows that he can brush off past criticisms with a smile. After leaving Red Bull, Perez is set to return to F1 with Cadillac in the 2026 season. Recently, he conducted a two-day test driving an unbranded Ferrari at the Imola circuit, completing a total of 183 laps, marking his first return to F1 cars after departing from Red Bull. Cadillac team principal Graeme Lowdon expressed satisfaction with Perez’s performance.