Sergio “Checo” Pérez, born on January 26, 1990, in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, is a distinguished racing driver known for his extensive career in Formula One (F1). He is the youngest child of Antonio Pérez Garibay and Marilú Mendoza de Pérez, with an older brother, Antonio, who is a retired stock car racing driver. Pérez is married to Carola Martínez Galindo, and they have four children.
Career Highlights:
- Formula One Debut: Pérez made his F1 debut in 2011 with the Sauber team, quickly establishing himself as a skilled driver with a series of impressive performances.
- Team Progression: Throughout his career, he has raced for several teams, including McLaren, Force India, Racing Point, and Red Bull Racing. Pérez achieved his first F1 victory at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix and secured multiple podium finishes in subsequent seasons.
- Recent Developments: In December 2024, Pérez’s tenure with Red Bull Racing concluded. The team announced that Liam Lawson would replace him alongside Max Verstappen for the 2025 season. Pérez’s departure marked the end of a 13-year presence in F1, leaving Mexico without a representative on the grid for the first time in over a decade.
Future Prospects:
Pérez has expressed his intention to continue competing at the highest levels of motorsport. Juan Pablo Montoya has endorsed Pérez’s potential return, suggesting that opportunities may arise with teams like Cadillac in the near future.
Additionally, reports indicate that Pérez is exploring options to re-enter Formula 1, possibly aligning with Cadillac’s anticipated entry into the sport in 2026.
Philanthropy and Personal Interests:
Beyond racing, Pérez is committed to philanthropy. In November 2012, he established the Checo Pérez Foundation, dedicated to supporting orphans and children battling cancer. His sister, Paola, serves as the foundation’s president. Pérez is also a devout Catholic and maintains close friendships within the sports community, including with Mexican footballer Javier Hernández.
Social Media Presence:
Pérez actively engages with fans through social media platforms. His Instagram account, @schecoperez, boasts over 8 million followers, where he shares insights into his personal and professional life.