Formula 1 star Pérez considers early retirement amid Cadillac project

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Sergio “Checo” Pérez has been back in Formula 1 for less than a season and is already contemplating retirement.

The Mexican driver said Tuesday that bringing Cadillac into a leading role in the sport’s top tier will take time, but he does not plan on competing with the team for much longer.

“It’s a project that requires more time than I initially thought,” Pérez said in an interview with Televisa network. “I think giving a specific number (of years) is difficult, but it won’t be much longer.”

The 36-year-old Pérez missed last season when Red Bull dropped him , but returned with Cadillac as it made its debut in the top category.

His best results this season are a pair of 14th-place finishes. In addition, he has retired from five races due to various issues.

“People who understand Formula 1 know the level I am driving at. It brought me great satisfaction to prove to myself that the circumstances of recent years were what kept me from showing my full talent,” he added.

Cadillac, which also has Valtteri Bottas driving for the team, is bottom of the constructors’ championship, having yet to score a single point.

“I’m aware that we are much closer to the end than the beginning, but that’s why I want to fully enjoy these Grands Prix — they are a dream,” Pérez said.

Pérez explained that a key reason for considering retirement is wanting to spend more time with his wife, Carola Martínez, and their four children.

“What really holds me back (from continuing) is my kids. I would love to stay as long as Fernando (Alonso), for example, but my children are at an age where I want to be around more,” he added.

For now, Pérez is gearing up to compete in the United States Grand Prix later this week before heading to his home race, the Mexican Grand Prix, where he will reach 300 Formula 1 starts.

“I’m excited about projects outside of motorsport,” he said. “I want to finish my time in Formula 1 on a high note, and all I can say is that we will know when (I retire) soon.”

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