Red Bull's 'Sergio Perez replacement'...

Red Bull’s ‘Sergio Perez replacement’ unmasked with C… Read More

Red Bull’s internal discussions about Sergio Perez’s future have intensified, with Daniel Ricciardo emerging as the most likely candidate to replace the struggling Mexican driver next season. Team principal Christian Horner faces mounting pressure as the 2024 season approaches its final stretch, with Red Bull’s patience with Perez wearing thin after a string of disappointing performances. Perez, who has failed to secure a top-six finish in his last eight races, was widely expected to be let go during the summer break, but the decision was made to allow him to complete the season.

However, unless Perez can turn things around dramatically, his future with Red Bull is far from secure. The question of who would step into his shoes if he departs has been a significant topic of speculation within the F1 community. According to F1 insider Lawrence Barretto, Ricciardo is currently the front-runner to replace Perez. Barretto notes that Red Bull’s first choice remains retaining Perez, but if that proves untenable, Ricciardo is poised to make a return to the team where he previously enjoyed considerable success.

Ricciardo’s potential return to Red Bull would also set off a chain reaction within the team’s driver lineup. Liam Lawson, who has been showing promise, would likely step into the seat vacated by Ricciardo at AlphaTauri, joining Yuki Tsunoda as part of the team’s lineup. Red Bull plans to reassess their driver situation heading into 2026, with Ricciardo, Tsunoda, and Lawson all having an opportunity to prove themselves worthy of the seat alongside Max Verstappen.

One possible scenario for 2026 could involve Ricciardo and Lawson switching places again, depending on their performances over the next two seasons. Alternatively, Red Bull could decide to part ways with one of them to make room for a rising star from their junior ranks. The team has no shortage of emerging talent, with Isack Hadjar currently leading the Formula Two championship by a significant margin. Hadjar is set to be Red Bull’s test and reserve driver next season, positioning him well for a future promotion to a race seat.

In addition to Hadjar, Red Bull’s junior program also boasts 17-year-old Arvid Lindblad, who has been turning heads in Formula Three. Lindblad has already secured four victories this season and is highly regarded by Red Bull’s motorsport advisor Helmut Marko. Marko hinted earlier this summer that Lindblad could be fast-tracked into Formula One, underscoring Red Bull’s commitment to nurturing young talent.

For Ricciardo, the situation presents both an opportunity and a challenge. A return to a top team like Red Bull would be a significant boost for the Australian, who has had a tumultuous few seasons. However, to secure the seat, Ricciardo will need to outperform Tsunoda, his current teammate at AlphaTauri. As it stands, Ricciardo trails Tsunoda 22-12 in their head-to-head battle, which suggests he has some ground to make up if he wants to convince Red Bull that he is the right choice to replace Perez.

Horner and Marko are undoubtedly aware of the complexities involved in making such a decision. While Ricciardo’s experience and previous success with Red Bull make him an attractive option, the team must also consider the long-term potential of their younger drivers. The next few races will be critical for all parties involved, as Red Bull looks to finalize its lineup for 2024 and beyond.

while Perez remains in the hot seat for now, the pressure is on for him to deliver results. If he fails to do so, Ricciardo appears to be the most likely candidate to take his place, with Lawson and Tsunoda poised to step up within the Red Bull driver program. The team’s deep pool of talent, including Hadjar and Lindblad, ensures that Red Bull will have no shortage of options as they continue to dominate the F1 landscape.