Official verdict on Perez Red Bull move announced....

Official verdict on Perez Red Bull move announced…read more

Red Bull driver Sergio Perez has recently received a significant morale boost amidst growing speculation about his future with the team. Despite a season marked by inconsistent performances, which has led to questions about his place at Red Bull for 2024, Perez was honored at the FIA awards for his standout overtake at the Brazilian Grand Prix. This recognition comes at a time when his position at the team appears uncertain, making it a timely boost for the Mexican driver.

Perez’s 2024 season has been largely disappointing, with several underwhelming performances that have contributed to a series of negative headlines. Aside from a few podium finishes at the start of the season, the 33-year-old driver has struggled to maintain consistent form. This has led to multiple early exits in qualifying, including several in Q1, which are atypical for a driver in a top team like Red Bull. As the season has progressed, his lack of points has had a direct impact on Red Bull’s standings, with the team ultimately finishing third in the Constructors’ Championship — a far cry from their usual dominance.

A particularly stark contrast has been his performance relative to his teammate, Max Verstappen. Perez trailed the reigning world champion by a staggering 285 points by the end of the season. Verstappen’s incredible success on the track has highlighted Perez’s struggles even more, and this disparity has sparked renewed speculation over whether Perez will remain with Red Bull beyond 2024, despite having a contract for the upcoming season.

Red Bull has not officially made a decision about Perez’s future. According to the team’s motorsport advisor, Helmut Marko, a decision on Perez’s status was expected to be made after the season finale in Abu Dhabi. However, as of now, no official announcement has been made. The ongoing uncertainty surrounding Perez’s future has fueled rumors that Red Bull could potentially look for a replacement, although such a move would be a significant decision given Perez’s contract.

Amid these uncertainties, Perez received a boost at the FIA Awards for his remarkable move during the sprint race at the Brazilian Grand Prix. The overtake, which came as Perez passed both Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso to secure third place, was widely praised. It was voted as the “Overtake of the Year” by fans, with Perez receiving 60% of the vote, outpacing rivals Oscar Piastri and Alex Albon, who were also nominated for the award. This accolade was a much-needed confidence booster for the driver, who has faced increasing pressure due to his performance struggles.

Perez took to Instagram to express his gratitude for the award, writing, “That was really an exciting race! Thanks to all for voting!” The recognition of his overtake in Brazil is seen as a highlight in an otherwise challenging season for the Mexican driver. It demonstrates that, despite the challenges he has faced in 2024, Perez is still capable of moments of brilliance on the track.

The timing of this recognition is particularly significant. With uncertainty surrounding his future at Red Bull, the award serves as a reminder of Perez’s potential when he is able to extract the best from his car. While his form has been erratic this season, moments like his overtake in Brazil show that he still has the skill and racecraft to compete at the highest level.

It remains to be seen whether this award will influence Red Bull’s decision-making process regarding Perez’s future with the team. The ongoing speculation suggests that if Perez does not improve his performance in the upcoming season, Red Bull may look for alternative options. However, with his contract already in place for 2024, it is likely that he will get another chance to prove himself in the coming year.

Ultimately, the award and recognition at the FIA event provide a much-needed morale boost for Perez as he faces an uncertain future. It highlights that, despite the difficulties of the past season, he still has the ability to deliver memorable moments and contribute to the team’s success. Whether this translates into a longer stay at Red Bull will depend on his performances in 2024, but for now, Perez can take pride in his achievement and look forward to the challenges of the next season with renewed confidence.