Sergio Perez is set to reignite the excitement in Formula 1 as he officially confirms the return of his iconic driver number 11 ahead of his much-anticipated debut with Cadillac next season. The year 2026 is poised to be a monumental turning point for F1, as sweeping new regulations roll out with a focus on sustainability and heightened competition on the tracks. One of the most eye-catching changes for fans will be the downsizing of the cars, a much-needed alteration considering the influx of new teams joining the grid.
Next season, American powerhouse Cadillac is preparing to make its mark in the world of F1, dramatically expanding the single-seater landscape. This bold move is a golden opportunity for Perez, who is looking for a revival after a tumultuous end to his time at Red Bull. Joining him in this new venture will be Valtteri Bottas, Lewis Hamilton’s former teammate at Mercedes. The duo of seasoned racers is expected to quickly adapt to the new regulations, aiming to propel Cadillac to a strong start as they join the elite ranks of F1.
In a recent Instagram post, Perez unveiled the return of his cherished number 11, a symbol he has carried throughout his illustrious career across various teams. The post featured a striking golden graphic of the number alongside his logo, captioned with the hopeful message: “The story continues with #11.” This announcement comes on the heels of the FIA’s official 2026 entry list, which confirmed Perez’s number and revealed that Bottas would also reintroduce his number 77 as they gear up for the championship.
This marks yet another chapter for Perez, who has previously driven for esteemed teams like Sauber, McLaren, Force India/Racing Point, and Red Bull, where he truly showcased his talent. With five of his six grand prix victories achieved during his time at Red Bull, the 35-year-old is now looking to Cadillac not just for a fresh start but as a platform to rebuild his reputation and legacy in the sport.
As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Perez and his new team, with fervent fans eagerly awaiting the thrilling battles that lie ahead on the racetrack.
