Perez confirmed talks with several teams.

      At the end of last year, Red Bull Racing ended its cooperation with Sergio Perez, which was largely unexpected for the Mexican racer himself. In a recent interview, Perez said that he is negotiating with several teams and named a condition under which he is ready to return to Formula 1 in 2026.

      Sergio Perez: "I didn't expect everything that happened at the end of last season. The team's plans became clear only at the Qatar stage, and then we started discussing the terms of my departure. Everything happened very quickly.

      I am glad that I had so much time to take a small step back, look at Formula 1 from the outside and realize what I have achieved over the years in many areas. I consider it a privilege that I have had such a successful career. I know that I have always made the most of my opportunities, which is very important for me as an athlete.

      If I find a project that motivates me to fully return, and there is a team that believes in me, appreciates my career achievements, experience, and everything I can give them, then it will be a very attractive option to consider.

      That's why I've given myself at least six months to explore all the available options and decide what to do with my career next.

      There are several interesting projects. After the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, I was approached by several teams. The season has already started, which means that there will be even more opportunities in the coming months.

      We are negotiating with several parties. After I know all the available options, we will make a decision. It's very clear to me that I'll only come back if the project makes sense and I like it.

      I spent a lot of time in Formula 1 and achieved almost everything. But it's only when you take a step back that you realize how much you've achieved in life and in sports. Therefore, in order to devote all my time to Formula 1 again, I need the appropriate motivation.

      It's nice to know that people continue to show interest in me. In Formula 1, people usually have a short memory – after a few races they forget what I've achieved. But now many people have realized that I didn't have the easiest position in Formula 1, and overall, I did a very good job. Last year, I wasn't able to show my best, and now people suddenly realize how difficult it is to pilot this car.

      I joined Red Bull after Alex Elbon and Pierre Gasly, two great drivers, had problems. I've been driving for Red Bull for so long that everyone has forgotten how difficult it is to drive this car.

      As I said, if I feel that the project I am being offered to participate in makes sense, including taking into account the changes in the regulations in 2026, then a year out of racing will not affect me in any way if I decide to return."