Verstappen rift opens as Jos names preferred Red Bull
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A rift appears to be forming in the Verstappen family over who should partner Max Verstappen at Red Bull in 2025.
Currently, Red Bull’s lineup includes Max, the three-time world champion, and Sergio Perez, who is under contract with the team until 2026.
However, Perez’s recent struggles—failing to score points in the last two races in Mexico and Brazil—have raised questions about his future with the team, as Red Bull’s dominance has recently been threatened by McLaren and Ferrari in the Constructors’ standings.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner was spotted leaving Williams’ motorhome during the Brazilian Grand Prix, which has fueled rumors that Red Bull may be considering new options for 2025.
Among the rumored candidates is Franco Colapinto, an Argentine driver who recently debuted in F1. Despite his promising performance, Colapinto will be without a seat next season as Carlos Sainz is set to join Williams in 2025.
Given Perez’s recent lackluster form, Colapinto might have a shot at Red Bull if the team seeks fresh talent to complement Verstappen.
Another potential candidate is Liam Lawson, currently a VCARB driver and filling in for Daniel Ricciardo. Lawson has been showing steady improvement and could be in line for a promotion to Red Bull, especially with the support of Jos Verstappen, Max’s father.
Jos has expressed confidence in the young Kiwi, stating that Lawson appears ready for a step up to Red Bull and could provide the competitive edge needed to push Max further.
Jos sees Lawson’s potential promotion as beneficial, believing that a strong teammate would help Max continue improving.
However, Max himself recently made it clear he wants to continue alongside Perez, saying he has no interest in a change and wants Perez to remain his teammate.
This stance from Max suggests a disagreement with his father, who has advocated for Lawson’s potential over Perez’s continued presence.
Red Bull now faces a choice between loyalty to Perez and exploring younger talent to maintain the team’s edge.
As the season nears its end, Perez’s future at Red Bull remains uncertain, while Lawson’s final races this year may determine if he earns a shot alongside Max in 2025.
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