P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes cut ties with driver for 2026
Mercedes will part ways with one of their drivers in 2026 due to a signing announcement from a rival F1 team. Cadillac will debut on the grid next season and revealed their driver lineup before the Dutch Grand Prix. Sergio Perez, previously with Red Bull, will return to F1 with Cadillac alongside Valtteri Bottas, who will leave Mercedes for a rival team. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff confirmed they will part ways with Bottas by the end of the year. No replacement for Bottas as the Mercedes reserve driver in 2026 has been announced yet. Suggestions include Fred Vesti or Mick Schumacher returning to the role. There are ongoing inspections involving Mercedes and Ferrari as the Dutch GP absence is confirmed, while axed F1 stars prepare for comebacks.
