Perez-Bottas' 'cautious' decision ignites discussion.

      "2024 was a tough year for Perez."

      Cadillac's choice to kick off its Formula 1 program with Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas is sparking mixed reactions in the paddock. Dr. Helmut Marko, a key figure in the decision to let go of Perez after 2024, stated to Kleine Zeitung that while the duo is reliable, they’ve opted for a cautious approach. "They've taken the conservative path," remarked the Red Bull advisor. "They know what they have. I spoke with him (Perez) on the phone, and he's motivated. If he’s motivated and the car is good, then he’ll certainly return to the level he achieved before," he added.

      Perez was dismissed by Red Bull at the close of 2024, while Bottas served as Mercedes' reserve in 2025 following a challenging final period at Sauber. Sky Deutschland analyst Ralf Schumacher pointed out the clear challenge facing both drivers. "2024 was quite poor for Perez. He was in a mental slump," the former F1 driver stated. "Now it’s intriguing - is he on the same level as Bottas or even better? If so, he can redeem himself, similar to Albon. Regardless of the car's performance, the two are essentially equal competitors. Whoever significantly falls behind will likely not remain in Formula 1 for long."

      Schumacher also expressed that he believes his nephew Mick, now with Alpine in WEC, would have been a preferable selection for Cadillac. Regarding Mick's future, amid speculation of a shift from Alpine's sports car program to Cadillac's with a possible role as an F1 reserve, Ralf asserted: "I’m staying out of it. Cadillac has a solid setup in endurance racing, even though he’s currently settled with Alpine."

      Another disappointed figure is Frederik Vesti. As an existing Cadillac sports car driver and Mercedes reserve, the Dane has seen Bottas once again promoted ahead of him. He shared with Viaplay, "It’s incredibly frustrating not to be selected. It was a fantastic opportunity for me to enter Formula 1. The only consolation is that I was not chosen over another young driver." He added, "This represents the most cautious decision possible. The two signed drivers are a good move for the initial races and months, but it won't be long before they realize there are greater prospects elsewhere."

      In the meantime, Sauber rookie Gabriel Bortoleto mentioned that fellow Brazilian Felipe Drugovich, who has long been associated with Cadillac, also deserved a chance. "Felipe is a great friend of mine, and I truly believe he earned the opportunity to be in Formula 1," he stated. "He’s the Formula 2 champion, so I think any F2 champion should get a shot. However, it's a large organization - they have their reasons for their choices, and such situations occur."