Sergio Perez’s Camp Eyes Williams Seat, But Only If Carlos Sainz Leaves

Sergio Perez’s return to Formula 1 with Cadillac has not gone as hoped, and now, halfway through the 2026 season, reports suggest his management is looking for a way out. According to Autosport, preliminary talks have been held with Williams, but any opening there depends entirely on Carlos Sainz’s decision about his own future.

Perez joined Cadillac for their debut 2026 season alongside Valtteri Bottas, but the team has struggled badly. They have scored no points in the first 11 Grands Prix, and Perez has retired from four races. Reliability issues and a lack of pace from the MAC-26 chassis have reportedly pushed Perez’s camp to explore other options for 2027.

The key factor is Sainz. He joined Williams in 2025, took two podiums, and helped the team finish fifth in the Constructors’ Championship. But 2026 has been a major setback. The FW48 arrived late, overweight, and slow, and team principal James Vowles has already called the season a write-off due to unfixable handling issues, with focus shifting to 2027.

Sainz’s contract only runs through at least the end of 2026, and given the team’s poor form, he may consider leaving. If he does, Williams would need an experienced replacement, and Perez’s camp is said to be closely monitoring the situation. A move could see Perez swap Cadillac for Williams next year, but only if Sainz decides to go.