Just In: Verstappen rift opens as Jos names preferred Red Bull team-mate that…read more
Verstappen rift opens as Jos names preferred Red Bull team-mate that…read more
A recent divide has emerged between Max Verstappen and his father, Jos Verstappen, regarding who should be the Red Bull driver to partner Max in 2025. The current team lineup has three-time world champion Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez, whose contract runs through 2026. However, Perez’s performance this season has been disappointing, with McLaren and Ferrari both overtaking Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship standings. This underperformance has sparked further discussions on whether Perez is the right teammate for Verstappen moving forward.
The last two races, held in Mexico and Brazil, were particularly difficult for Perez, as he left both events without scoring any points. This poor run has amplified concerns about his place in the Red Bull lineup. Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team boss, was seen leaving the Williams motorhome during the Brazilian Grand Prix, igniting speculation around potential recruitment plans. Rumors suggest that Red Bull is interested in securing Franco Colapinto, an Argentine driver who has shown potential in Formula 1 but will lose his seat at Williams next year, with Carlos Sainz confirmed to join Williams for the 2025 season.
With Colapinto without a team for the coming season, he could represent an appealing option for Red Bull if they decide to shake things up. In the same vein, Liam Lawson, a current VCARB driver who substituted for Daniel Ricciardo earlier in the season, might be in line for a promotion to the main Red Bull seat. Lawson has garnered support from Jos Verstappen, who has openly backed the idea of him partnering with Max.
Jos shared his opinion with Viaplay, saying, “Lawson is doing very well. It seems logical to me that he’s ready to step up. Let him complete the season and build confidence, then the team can decide what’s best for next year.” Jos hinted that he believes a teammate like Lawson, who could be competitive and challenge Max, would push the reigning champion to improve further.
However, Max Verstappen himself has publicly voiced his preference for keeping Perez as his teammate. In September, he stated, “I want Checo to be my teammate,” and said that replacing Perez was “not on the table.” This position puts Max at odds with his father’s view, underscoring a clear difference in opinion on Red Bull’s ideal 2025 lineup.
As Red Bull weighs its options, the Verstappen family’s differing opinions add an interesting dimension to the decision. With three races left this season, Lawson’s performances may help shape Red Bull’s lineup for next year.
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