Sergio Perez’s turbulent tenure at Red Bull appears to be reaching its climax as the Mexican driver admitted discussions about his future with the team are underway. This revelation follows a dismal 2024 season capped by a first-lap retirement at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, adding to the growing uncertainty about his place in the 2025 driver line-up.
Perez’s Candid Admission: Future in Flux
Perez, who signed a two-year extension with Red Bull earlier this year, has staunchly maintained that he expects to race for the team next season. However, after a stretch of 18 races yielding just 49 points, the Mexican driver has conceded that talks with Red Bull management this week will be pivotal.
“At the moment, I don’t know,” Perez confessed. “I just know I’ve got a contract to race next year, unless something changes in the coming days.”
This marks a shift in Perez’s stance, as he previously dismissed speculation about his exit. He now acknowledges that Red Bull may seek an agreement to part ways.
No Intention to Resign, Terms Must Be Right
Despite the uncertainty, Perez has made one thing clear: he will not resign. Instead, Red Bull must present acceptable terms if they wish to reshuffle their line-up for 2025.
“We’re going to be talking in the coming days,” Perez revealed. “We will discuss the situation from both parties and see if we are able to reach an agreement. If not, I have a contract for next year.”
Red Bull is expected to outline its options for the 2025 driver line-up during a shareholder meeting this week. Rumors suggest rising stars like Liam Lawson and F2 runner-up Isack Hadjar are in contention, while Perez’s seat hangs precariously in the balance.
A Season to Forget: Perez’s Abu Dhabi GP Woes
Perez’s final outing in Abu Dhabi encapsulated the struggles of his 2024 season. Contact with Sauber’s Valtteri Bottas on the opening lap spun him out of contention, forcing an early retirement. Reflecting on the incident, Perez said:
“I didn’t see Valtteri. As I was doing the corner, I was hit very late on the rear. Then I lost drive.”
However, Perez hinted that his car was already compromised:
“Every time I was shifting up, I was losing drive. I think there was something related to that already.”
Red Bull’s Decision Looms Large
Perez’s poor performance throughout the season—marked by the largest points gap to a teammate on the grid—has put Red Bull in a difficult position. While Max Verstappen clinched his fourth consecutive Drivers’ Championship, Perez’s form cost the team the Constructors’ title, which went to McLaren.
Team Principal Christian Horner acknowledged the importance of having two consistently performing drivers:
“For us, it’s very important that both of our drivers are delivering, and there’s not a significant gap. Discussions will happen with Checo, and we’ll collectively work out the appropriate way forward.”
The Path Ahead: Perez’s Final Chapter with Red Bull?
As the off-season unfolds, Perez’s future with Red Bull will likely be determined within days. While his departure seems imminent, the terms of that exit remain unclear. Whether he transitions into an ambassadorial role or moves elsewhere, Perez’s exit will mark the end of a tumultuous chapter for both the driver and the team.
For now, Perez remains defiant, refusing to bow out quietly. “I’ve given a lot to this team,” he said, emphasizing his readiness to fight for his place. The question is whether Red Bull is willing to continue the partnership or opt for a fresh start in 2025.
