Perez calls F1 cost cap unfair to smaller teams

Formula 1’s flat cost cap is unfair to smaller teams and creates gaps across the grid rather than bringing the field closer, Sergio Perez argues. He made the case after replying “No” when asked whether the team had more upgrades planned.

Perez compared that with his Red Bull years from 2021 to 2024. He said the team brought upgrades almost every weekend and that performance, not the cap, dominated the conversation. Smaller teams, he argued, are less efficient and have less clearly defined methods, which can lead them to overspend.

His criticism comes as Williams team principal James Vowles seeks to replace the flat limit with a sliding scale. Under the proposal, teams lower in the constructors’ standings would get more spending power than those at the top. A vote on the proposed 2027 change is scheduled at the F1 Commission next month.

Vowles needs the consent of six teams, including Williams. Alpine, Aston Martin, Audi and Cadillac look set to support the proposal alongside Williams, leaving him with five of the six required votes. Ferrari, McLaren, Mercedes and Red Bull are understood to oppose it, as are Haas and Racing Bulls; Racing Bulls boss Alan Permane has recently stated his opposition.

Vowles could try again in 2027 for a 2028 introduction, when he would need only four votes.