Concerns over Ferrari’s 2026 power unit could turn Sergio Perez’s Cadillac comeback into a far bigger challenge than expected.
Ferrari might unintentionally derail Sergio Perez’s highly anticipated return to Formula 1 in 2026, as growing concerns surround the power unit that will underpin Cadillac’s debut season.
According to a report shared by lastwordonsports.com, the power unit Cadillac will use—developed by Ferrari—may be facing notable challenges behind the scenes: “Ferrari, on paper, has the resources and established infrastructure to challenge Mercedes with its engines. However, reports this year suggest that the Maranello-based team has encountered some obstacles in its development,” the outlet stated.
While Ferrari cannot be ruled out, the situation casts a shadow over its 2026 prospects. On paper, Ferrari should be one of the strongest engine manufacturers heading into the new regulatory cycle. The Italian team possesses decades of experience, a massive budget, and a proven technical base.
However, the reported difficulties suggest that translating those advantages into immediate performance under radically new rules may not be as straightforward as expected. These obstacles raise legitimate questions about how competitive Cadillac’s project can realistically be in its debut Formula 1 season.
Power unit performance will be a defining factor under the 2026 regulations, with increased emphasis on electrical output, energy recovery, and overall efficiency. Any delay or compromise at this stage could leave new entrants struggling to keep up from the very first races.
Ferrari engine concerns loom over Cadillac’s 2026 debut
For Sergio Perez, the situation adds pressure to a project that already comes with inherent risks. Leading a brand-new team into Formula 1 requires patience, adaptability, and trust in the technical package. If Ferrari’s engine program fails to meet expectations early on, Perez could find himself fighting an uphill battle regardless of his experience or leadership.
Cadillac’s entry was positioned as a long-term investment rather than an instant title contender, but early competitiveness remains crucial for credibility. A lack of performance could slow momentum, affect morale, and place additional scrutiny on both Ferrari and Cadillac’s technical direction.
As the countdown to 2026 continues, Ferrari’s engine development will be closely monitored across the paddock. For Perez and Cadillac, the success—or failure—of that power unit could ultimately define whether this comeback becomes a statement project or an early setback in Formula 1’s new era.