Breaking:Sergio Perez handed huge F1 return boost on eve of…read more 

Sergio Perez handed huge F1 return boost on eve of…read more 

Just a year ago, Sergio Perez’s Formula 1 journey seemed to be cruising along smoothly. Heading into the 2024 Miami Grand Prix, the Mexican driver held a comfortable second place in the championship standings. His impressive consistency saw him claim four podiums in the first five races, including a strong performance in China just two weeks prior. Although he was already trailing his Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen by 25 points, it was hardly surprising given Verstappen’s dominant form. Perez still appeared to be playing a crucial role in Red Bull’s expected march toward a third consecutive constructors’ title.

However, fortunes can change rapidly in Formula 1. Fast forward to this weekend’s race in Miami, and both Red Bull’s dominance and Perez’s place on the grid have vanished. In a season that has delivered little good news for the 34-year-old, Perez received a welcome boost this week with the confirmation that the Mexican Grand Prix will remain on the F1 calendar through 2028. While it doesn’t directly impact his career, the announcement may provide the emotional and commercial lift he needs to pursue a return to the sport.

Last year’s Miami GP turned out to be a high point for Perez, as he finished fourth — a result that, at the time, didn’t raise any red flags. Unfortunately, that would be his final standout performance of the season. Over the following 18 races, he managed to collect just 49 more points, marking a sharp decline in form. Despite signing a contract extension with Red Bull in June, his struggles persisted. As his confidence waned, speculation grew over his future with the team.

Ultimately, Red Bull made the difficult decision to replace Perez at the end of the season. Following the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the team announced that young New Zealander Liam Lawson would take Perez’s seat in 2025. It brought an abrupt halt to Perez’s 13-year run in Formula 1, leaving him without a team for the first time since his debut in 2011.

Compounding the uncertainty surrounding his future was the fate of the Mexican Grand Prix itself. Many wondered whether the popular event could survive without its star local driver. Perez has long been the face of Mexican motorsport, and his presence has been key in attracting massive crowds to the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.

However, Formula 1 boss Stefano Domenicali put those fears to rest this week by confirming a contract extension that will keep the race in Mexico City through at least 2028. He praised the country’s passionate fan base and vibrant race-day atmosphere, calling it one of the championship’s most energetic events. “Every year the unique atmosphere created by our fans in Mexico City is one of the most incredible and energetic experiences of our championship,” Domenicali said. “We look forward to continuing this extraordinary collaboration together.”

While Perez may be off the grid for now, his career is not necessarily over. Taking a break from the relentless scrutiny of F1 could prove to be beneficial for him personally and professionally. With the 2026 season marking the arrival of new engine regulations and potential reshuffles across teams, opportunities may open up for experienced drivers like Perez to return. Given his experience, marketability, and undoubted pace on his day, it would be unwise to rule out a comeback.

For now, Perez remains a free agent, but the commitment to his home Grand Prix and continued support from fans may well keep the door open for a return — possibly sooner than many expect.