Ex-boss supports Sergo Perez's return to F1.

      "He was certainly very, very beneficial for us."

      Otmar Szafnauer, Sergio Perez’s former boss, has shown support for the sidelined Mexican driver, believing he can successfully return to Formula 1. The 35-year-old was released by Red Bull at the conclusion of last year due to subpar performance, but his replacements, Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda, have also faced significant challenges alongside Max Verstappen. Perez, who enjoys strong support from Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim and various corporate entities in Mexico, is currently rumored to be associated with F1's upcoming eleventh team for 2026 and beyond, Cadillac.

      "Can Checo make a comeback?" Szafnauer stated to the Hungarian outlet formula.hu. "In my opinion, he is certainly capable of that." Szafnauer, who managed the Silverstone-based Force India and Racing Point while Perez was with the team, praised the six-time grand prix winner for his "fighting spirit, talent, and skill."

      "I believe he had similar qualities at Red Bull," he continued. "He may have lost focus a bit towards the end, but we must remember he was competing against Max Verstappen." Despite this, Szafnauer believes Perez can easily handle a return to the racing grid, even after a complete season off. "A driver like Checo, with such extensive experience, could definitely make a successful return," he remarked. "It wouldn’t be an issue for him."

      Setting aside the Verstappen factor, Szafnauer admitted he is uncertain about what specifically went wrong for Perez at Red Bull. "Does he have any weaknesses? Well, I'm not sure, as I wasn't there at Red Bull—but he was definitely very, very good for us."