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Perez urged to join NEW team after Red Bull axe
Sergio Perez has been advised to leave Red Bull Racing and explore new opportunities after it was confirmed he will not partner Max Verstappen for the 2025 Formula 1 season.
The 34-year-old Mexican driver is taking a sabbatical following a challenging 2024 campaign, where he finished eighth in the drivers’ standings.
His struggles also impacted Red Bull’s performance in the constructors’ championship, with McLaren and Ferrari overtaking them.
Perez’s underwhelming season led Red Bull to replace him with junior driver Liam Lawson as Verstappen’s teammate for the upcoming season.
Despite his recent difficulties, Perez has had notable successes with Red Bull, including helping secure a one-two finish in the 2023 drivers’ championship and a memorable win at the Monaco Grand Prix in 2022.
However, his inability to consistently deliver results and a noticeable dip in confidence throughout 2024 ultimately cost him his seat.
Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert weighed in on Perez’s struggles, speaking to GPFans through Coin Poker.
He acknowledged Perez’s poor form, suggesting that his confidence was significantly eroded, particularly when compared to Verstappen.
“Mentally, it does seem as if Max has crushed him,” Herbert said, adding that Perez’s inability to consistently challenge Verstappen had been evident throughout his tenure with the team.
Herbert noted that while Perez showed promise early in 2023, his performance declined, culminating in a disappointing 2024.
Herbert also suggested that Perez might benefit from leaving Red Bull to reset his career and regain confidence.
He emphasized that sometimes a fresh start in a different environment can help a driver rebuild their form and morale.
If Perez wishes to return to Formula 1 in the future, his options may be limited.
Currently, the only vacant seat for 2025 is at Red Bull’s junior team, VCARB.
However, with Cadillac set to join the grid as an 11th team in 2026, new opportunities could arise.
While Perez’s recent challenges have overshadowed his earlier achievements, he remains a driver with notable talent and experience.
A move outside of Formula 1 or a return with a new team could help him regain his confidence and competitive edge.