P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Cadillac has revealed that it spoke to key figures at Red Bull, and probed Sergio Perez himself, to try to understand what led to his split with his old team
Cadillac extensively researched Sergio Perez’s potential for their new F1 team, engaging in talks with key figures at Red Bull and interviewing Perez himself to address initial doubts stemming from his challenging 2024 season with the team. Despite concerns, Perez’s wealth of experience made him a strong candidate, solidifying his official selection by Cadillac. The team sought explanations for Perez’s difficulties at Red Bull and the effects of his year-long absence from F1, comparing it to Valtteri Bottas’s reserve role at Mercedes. Following in-depth discussions and meetings with Perez post-British Grand Prix, Cadillac’s CEO Dan Towriss expressed confidence in Perez’s commitment to their project, affirming his suitability for the team and dispelling any reservations regarding his return to the sport. Notable decision makers at Cadillac, including GM president Mark Reuss and team principal Graeme Lowdon, meticulously analyzed the potential of both Bottas and Perez to perform at their best in F1, seeking insights from past experiences and conversations with personnel at Red Bull to ensure informed driver selections for the upcoming season.
