Breaking: Red Bull chief confirms Perez replacement decision after…read more
Red Bull chief confirms Perez replacement decision after…read more
Red Bull Racing has shed light on the uncertain future of Sergio Perez following a challenging season for the Mexican driver. Perez’s struggles were evident once again at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, where he finished a disappointing 10th. His weekend woes began during qualifying, where he was eliminated in Q1 after managing only the 16th-fastest time.
This poor performance is part of a larger trend, with Perez securing just 49 points over his last 16 races. Heading into the final two races of the season, he sits eighth in the 2024 drivers’ standings. Despite signing a contract extension earlier this year, mounting pressure has raised questions about whether the 34-year-old will retain his seat at Red Bull beyond next season.
Perez’s Struggles Impact Red Bull’s Performance
Red Bull, the reigning Constructors’ champions, have slipped to third in the standings, trailing McLaren and Ferrari. While Max Verstappen clinched his fourth consecutive drivers’ championship in Las Vegas and has faced occasional difficulties with the car, he has consistently delivered crucial points. In contrast, Perez has struggled to replicate his teammate’s success, putting the team’s overall performance under scrutiny.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has repeatedly voiced support for Perez throughout the season. However, patience within the team appears to be wearing thin. Speculation about potential replacements has intensified, with Red Bull’s junior drivers, Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda, being mentioned as possible candidates for Perez’s seat in 2025.
Marko Confirms Decision Timeline
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has addressed the speculation, confirming that any decision about Perez’s future will be made after the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi on December 8. Speaking to Austrian outlet OE24, Marko said, “That will be decided after the finale in Abu Dhabi. In any case, Checo is acting as if he would drive for us for another year.”
While Perez appears confident about continuing with Red Bull in 2025, his future remains far from secure. His recent performances have intensified scrutiny, especially as Red Bull considers its options for the upcoming season. With two races left, Perez faces immense pressure to prove his worth and retain his seat alongside Verstappen.
For now, Red Bull has chosen to defer the decision until the season’s conclusion, keeping fans and analysts alike guessing about Perez’s fate in Formula 1.