The clock is ticking on Sergio Perez’s future at Red Bull Racing, with advisor Helmut Marko revealing that an announcement regarding the team’s 2025 driver lineup is just days away. After a lackluster second half of the 2024 Formula 1 season, Perez’s place alongside Max Verstappen hangs in the balance.
Perez’s Struggles in 2024
Perez’s downward spiral began after the summer break, with the Mexican driver collecting just 21 points over the final 10 races of the season. His struggles contributed significantly to Red Bull slipping to third in the Constructors’ Championship, behind McLaren and Ferrari—a result that cost the team millions in prize money and staff bonuses.
Despite Red Bull granting Perez a multi-year contract extension in June, his inability to consistently deliver results has placed his seat under scrutiny. While Perez boasts a strong financial backing and sponsorship appeal, his 285-point deficit to teammate Verstappen has prompted the team to explore alternatives.
Contract Complications: Will Perez Stay in Another Role?
Speculation suggests that Perez could remain with Red Bull in an ambassadorial role, should the team decide to remove him from the grid. However, the financial implications of such a move loom large. Reports suggest Perez’s contract buyout could cost Red Bull up to $20 million, though Marko has dismissed these rumors as “nonsense.”
If Perez exits the cockpit, it remains unclear whether he would seek a seat elsewhere on the grid, potentially with a midfield team, or step back from F1 entirely.
The Contenders to Partner Verstappen
Liam Lawson
The New Zealander is widely considered the frontrunner to replace Perez, thanks to his impressive performances filling in for Daniel Ricciardo during the 2023 season. Lawson demonstrated maturity and speed, traits that have caught the attention of both Christian Horner and Helmut Marko.
Yuki Tsunoda
Tsunoda, who tested the RB20 during the post-season session in Abu Dhabi, has emerged as a late contender. His technical feedback during the test impressed Red Bull engineers, potentially elevating his candidacy. Despite previous doubts about his consistency, Tsunoda’s growth in 2024 and ties to Honda—Red Bull’s current power unit supplier—may work in his favor.
Dark Horses
While Lawson and Tsunoda are the primary contenders, Daniel Ricciardo remains an outside possibility, given his experience and ties to Red Bull. However, his return to the team’s senior lineup seems unlikely due to his inconsistent performances since rejoining the Red Bull family in 2023.
What About AlphaTauri?
If Perez departs and either Lawson or Tsunoda is promoted, the ripple effect will leave a seat open at AlphaTauri (soon to be rebranded as Racing Bulls). The most likely candidate for that spot is Isack Hadjar, who finished second in the 2024 Formula 2 championship and is currently the highest-ranking driver in the Red Bull Junior Driver Programme.
What’s Next for Red Bull?
A decision on Perez’s future represents more than just a driver swap—it signals Red Bull’s broader ambitions for 2025. With McLaren and Ferrari surging ahead and Verstappen’s dominance alone no longer enough to secure the Constructors’ title, Red Bull needs a reliable second driver who can regularly contribute to the points tally. Whether that’s Perez, Lawson, or Tsunoda, the team’s choice will set the tone for the coming season.
Final Thoughts
With Helmut Marko promising an announcement in the coming days, the spotlight is squarely on Red Bull’s decision-making process. Will the team gamble on fresh talent or stick with the experienced yet underperforming Perez? The stakes are high, not just for Red Bull, but for the competitive dynamics of the 2025 Formula 1 season. Stay tuned.
