Potential sale unlikely to change the structure of Cadillac’s F1 team, Perez says

Sergio Perez is unfazed about the potential sale of a stake in the Cadillac Formula 1 team and doesn’t see the operating structure being altered should the ownership change.

RACER understands Sportico’s initial report that TWG Global – controlled by businessman Mark Walter – is exploring a sale of its stake in the team is accurate, with Cadillac a subsidiary of TWG Motorsports. Perez recently signed a new long-term contract to race for the team until 2029, and says the additional backing from General Motors leaves him confident that there will be minimal impact on team operations.

“I’m obviously pretty relaxed about it,” Perez said. “I know who is behind the project. GM is one of the biggest manufacturers currently in Formula 1. I don’t think they’ll have any problems. The other one is Dan [Towriss], TWG. I don’t know if they want to get some of their investment back or something like that, but I don’t think it will change any structure at all.

“For me, the most important thing is that the team focuses on racing. We have a lot to do, a lot to improve, and there are some crucial months for the team in that regard, for the preparation for next year. I think the more distractions we avoid, the better, and we focus on track. The rest is for the team bosses.”

One of the ongoing uncertainties at Cadillac revolves around the 2027 driver line-up, with Colton Herta set to appear in FP1 at Interlagos on Friday in order so secure the final point needed to apply for a Super License. Perez says he’s torn on whether Herta should replace Valtteri Bottas or if Cadillac should continue with its current pairing. 

“For me it's a difficult one, because I also know Colton and get on with him,” Perez said. “Obviously they both really deserve the shot in a way, but I think experience at this stage and this current phase of the project, it’s key.

“Valtteri has been doing a good job. He's been very unlucky in the last few races. Colton, when he has the opportunity, it’s very hard for him to show his pure talent. I think as a team it’s very tricky to make the decision, because with only FP1s it’s hard to know what sort of potential there is.

“I think [the team] know what they’re doing. They don’t need my feedback in that regard. All I need is someone that comes in and pushes the team forward massively. It’s all I need. Whoever comes here or is here – if it’s either Valtteri or Colton or anyone else – must come here and deliver.”

After Towriss told RACER there is still a scenario where Bottas can keep his seat, the Finn says that tallies with what he’s been told as he awaits a final decision.

“We’ve been in touch regularly,” Bottas said. “Last time I spoke with him was after the race in Mexico. The latest message I’ve got is that they’re not looking to change anything. Still, things need to be confirmed by the board.

“I’ve been quite surprised about the amount of noise on that, because I know what’s my situation. And all I’ve heard, the team has been happy with what I’m doing. But at the same time, we know how this sport works. And especially now, everyone wants to be in Formula 1. And if somebody sees an opportunity somewhere, they’re going to try and go for it, one way or the other.

“But the way our team is structured and the way decisions are made for the future, everything needs to be approved by the board. And I believe that meeting is still yet to happen. But I’ve been convinced nothing has changed. So that’s where we are.”