F1 News: Sergio Perez Addresses Expiring Red Bull Contract - "Not An Easy Seat"
Sergio Perez has shed light on his uncertain future with Red Bull Racing and the formidable challenge of being Max Verstappen's teammate. The Mexican driver, currently without a contract for 2025, touched upon the intricate dynamics within the team and the high benchmark set by Verstappen.
Key Takeaways:
- Sergio Perez is currently without a contract for 2025 and anticipates swift contract negotiations with Red Bull, acknowledging the team's clarity in their objectives.
- Perez discusses the intense challenge of competing alongside Max Verstappen, praising his teammate's consistency and skill.
- Despite the uncertainties, Perez remains composed, expressing a desire to evaluate his performance and the team's direction in the upcoming races before making future commitments.
Red Bull Press Image
Sergio Perez finds himself at a pivotal juncture in his Formula 1 career as his current contract with Red Bull is due to expire at the end of 2024. The Mexican driver has spoken about the upcoming negotiations with the Austrian team, confirming they have not taken place yet. He commented to Sky Sports F1:
"It's not easy.
"We already saw it in Bahrain. The only driver to put the perfect lap together was Max. He is a driver who operates at a high level without mistakes. Just being able to redeem yourself time after time. You’re only as good as your last race. When I’ve been comfortable with the car and team, I’ve been extremely close to Max. That’s the best I can do. Time will tell if that’s enough. If not, I will be watching at who goes next!"
Perez, who joined the team in 2021, continued:
"I think it’s early to say. I want to wait a few races to see how it goes. It’s not an easy or straightforward seat.
"It has some complications which we’ve seen in the past. We’ve seen great drivers that don’t survive six months or a year. It’s a unique team. I’m in no hurry. I want to see how it goes. With Red Bull, I think it will be a very fast conversation. It will take us five minutes to say what we want to do.
"We cannot take anything away from him [Max Verstappen]. He’s at one with the car. I think Max is at the stage of his career where he has a car that he is 100% comfortable with."
Perez's Red Bull contract will be closely watched this year with other names repeatedly mentioned as possible replacements, including Daniel Ricciardo, Carlos Sainz, and Alex Albon. If there is a shift within Red Bull it could also have a knock on effect on other teams and junior drivers who are ready to move up, including Red Bull reserve driver Liam Lawson.