Michel Jourdain Jr., renowned figure in Mexican motorsport, expresses concern that the absence of Checo Pérez in Formula 1 could lead to a decline in Mexican fanbase for the sport.
A prominent void looms in Formula One following Sergio Perez's departure from Red Bull, according to motorsports icon Michel Jourdain Jr. The veteran racer voiced concerns over the potential decline in public interest for Mexican motorsports without Perez's presence in the top tier.
Jourdain Jr. acknowledged the inevitable transience of sporting careers, stating, "It's essential to appreciate the time Checo spent in Formula One. Our mission should be to foster motorsports and nurture young talents."
Perez is rumored to be contemplating a return to Formula One in 2026, with viable options such as Alpine F1 Team and Cadillac emerging. Cadillac, set to debut in 2026, has expressed a keen interest in signing an experienced driver like Perez.
Jourdain Jr. expressed cautious optimism about Perez's potential comeback, acknowledging the risks associated with joining a newly established team like Cadillac. The analyist for Fox Sports, however, believes that Perez's talent and sponsorship power could significantly benefit the team.
Perez's departure from Red Bull was not unexpected, having faced considerable pressure in the face of teammate Max Verstappen's dominant performance. Despite his eighth-place finish and the loss of the constructors' championship, Jourdain Jr. emphasized Perez's exceptional talent, noting that Liam Lawson struggled with the car's handling.
The future of Mexican motorsports hinges on the nurturing of new talents, according to Jourdain Jr., who emphasized the need for support and the cultivation of young drivers.
The sports world may witness a resurgence in Mexican motorsports if Perez decides to join Cadillac in 2026, as suggested by the analyst for Fox Sports. Given his talent and sponsorship power, Perez's signing could greatly benefit the racing team's debut in Formula One.
