Red Bull Racing has decided to part ways with Mexican driver Sergio Perez before the start of the 2025 season. This decision comes after thorough evaluations of both the team’s and Perez’s recent performances.
Key Milestones in the Perez-Red Bull Partnership
Sergio Perez joined Red Bull before the 2021 season when he was without a seat. The Mexican driver seized the opportunity and made significant contributions to Max Verstappen’s championship victory that year, showcasing his prowess both on the track and strategically.
In the following two years (2022 and 2023), Perez played a vital role in securing back-to-back Constructors’ Championships for Red Bull. However, on an individual level, he never emerged as a strong contender for the Drivers’ Championship and often remained in Verstappen’s shadow.
Factors Behind the Decline
The 2024 season proved to be a challenging one for Perez, marked by inconsistent performances and struggles in qualifying sessions. He finished the year in eighth place, a stark contrast to Red Bull’s high standards of speed and consistency. Verstappen, on the other hand, consistently outperformed Perez, widening the gap between the teammates.
Red Bull attempted to support Perez by offering a 1+1 year contract, aiming to boost his performance. However, these efforts yielded limited improvements, and Perez’s struggles became a point of concern for the team’s future plans.
Departure and Future Prospects
In light of these developments, Red Bull and Sergio Perez mutually agreed to part ways before the 2025 season. Although Red Bull offered Perez an ambassadorial role, the seasoned driver declined, opting to sever all ties with the team.
Following Perez’s departure, Red Bull has not officially announced his replacement, though Liam Lawson is expected to take the seat. As for Perez, the next phase of his Formula 1 career remains uncertain. With no vacant seats on the grid, he faces the possibility of taking a year off or considering retirement.