In a surprising twist, Sergio Perez has opted to step away from Formula 1, ending his tenure with Red Bull Racing after a turbulent 2024 season. Red Bull boss Christian Horner revealed that the Mexican driver made the decision to take a sabbatical, marking a significant pause in his 13-year F1 career.
The announcement came after a season that saw Perez struggle to maintain his form, finishing a massive 285 points behind teammate Max Verstappen. Despite a strong start to the year with four podiums in the first five races, Perez’s performance took a steep downturn post-Monaco, culminating in what Horner described as a “tough year.”
Perez’s Decision to Step Away
Horner emphasized that the decision was ultimately Perez’s own, despite speculation about Red Bull’s intentions to replace him.
“Checo started the season so strongly… but really from Monte Carlo onwards, it has been a very tough year for him,” Horner told ESPN. “Basically, he has come to his own conclusion that now is the right time to step away from Formula 1 to take a bit of time out.”
While Perez initially insisted he would remain with Red Bull into 2025, the discussions post-Abu Dhabi revealed a shift in his mindset. Horner confirmed that Perez’s reflections after the season led to a mutual agreement for him to take a break.
Reflecting on Perez’s Legacy at Red Bull
Perez’s four-season stint at Red Bull has been marked by highs and lows. Joining the team in 2021, he played a crucial role in Max Verstappen’s maiden Drivers’ Championship win, often serving as a strategic asset in key races.
Horner was quick to highlight Perez’s contributions:
“He’s won five Grands Prix in our cars, was second in the Drivers’ World Championship last year, and has been a fantastic teammate. But he’s been on the treadmill for a long time and needs to take time to decide what he wants next.”
What’s Next for Checo?
While stepping back from F1, Perez isn’t cutting ties with Red Bull entirely. Horner noted that Perez would remain involved with the team in a non-driving capacity, a role that could keep the door open for a future return to motorsport.
For now, Perez plans to spend time with his family and assess his next steps, which could include exploring opportunities in other racing categories, such as sports cars.
“I think foremost and utmost, he needs to take some time out and see how much he misses driving a grand prix car,” Horner added.
A Future Without Perez
Red Bull has already confirmed Liam Lawson as Perez’s replacement for 2025, marking a new chapter for the team. Meanwhile, Perez’s departure raises questions about the next phase of his career and whether he will return to F1 or pivot to other forms of racing.
As fans and analysts speculate about Perez’s future, one thing is clear: his legacy as a team player and a consistent performer in the sport will not be forgotten. Whether this is a temporary sabbatical or the end of an era, Perez’s decision underscores the intense demands of life at the pinnacle of motorsport.