The dramatic fallout between Sergio Perez and Red Bull in 2024 has sparked heated debates, with former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard offering his candid take on the Mexican star’s exit. Coulthard suggested that Perez and his management were holding out for the “biggest payoff possible” before an agreement was reached to part ways. Unsurprisingly, his comments ignited a firestorm among Perez’s loyal fans, particularly in Mexico.
A Painful 2024 Season for Perez
Perez’s 2024 campaign was nothing short of a disappointment. Multiple Q1 exits, eight finishes outside the top 10, and a colossal 285-point deficit to his teammate and eventual champion, Max Verstappen, painted a bleak picture for the Mexican driver. As rumours swirled about his future, it became increasingly clear that Perez’s time at Red Bull was coming to an end.
Speaking on the Formula For Success podcast before Perez’s departure was officially confirmed, Coulthard gave a pointed analysis:
“Checo is a very good human being, but it’s painful to watch the resistance to the facts. I can only assume it’s a management play… It’s about trying to negotiate the biggest payoff possible.”
Coulthard speculated that Perez’s manager, Julian Jakobi, was focused on securing the best possible financial exit for his client. The strategy, while practical, added an awkward dynamic to an already challenging season for Perez.
Perez’s Legacy at Red Bull
Joining Red Bull in 2021, Perez quickly established himself as a valuable team player. Over his four seasons with the Milton Keynes outfit, he claimed five race victories and was instrumental in securing Constructors’ Championship titles. However, the 2024 season exposed glaring inconsistencies in his performance, ultimately costing Red Bull valuable points in their battle for supremacy.
Coulthard sympathized with Perez’s predicament but acknowledged the stark reality of the situation:
“Checo didn’t match Max, and it cost the team valuable points in the Constructors’ Championship. It’s a shame, but the decision had to be made.”
Fan Backlash and Coulthard’s Response
Coulthard’s remarks about Perez’s exit prompted a wave of criticism from Mexican fans, with some questioning his authority to comment on the matter. Addressing the backlash, Coulthard said:
“I took some heat from Mexico, the usual vitriol—‘What would you know? What have you ever achieved?’—and all that good stuff. But I was merely basing my opinion on the facts.”
Despite the backlash, Coulthard praised Perez as one of the most likable and respected figures in the paddock.
“If it was a personality contest, Checo would still be in the seat. He’s a brilliant man and has done a great job. He can be incredibly proud of his performance.”
What’s Next for Perez?
While Perez’s tenure at Red Bull has ended, he will remain tied to the brand in an ambassadorial role. Red Bull boss Christian Horner hinted that Perez might return to the grid with Cadillac Racing in 2026 if the Mexican driver chooses to pursue another opportunity.
For now, Perez seems content to take a break from the relentless demands of Formula 1.
“My priority is to enjoy myself, do things I haven’t done, and be with my family,” Perez said in a recent interview.
The Bigger Picture: Red Bull’s Ruthless Pursuit of Excellence
Perez’s exit underscores Red Bull’s relentless pursuit of dominance. With Liam Lawson stepping into the seat for 2025, the team is doubling down on nurturing young talent to complement Verstappen’s brilliance. While Perez’s departure may feel abrupt, it reflects the high-stakes nature of Formula 1, where performance is the ultimate currency.
The Legacy of Sergio Perez
Perez’s story is one of resilience and triumph in the face of adversity. From nearly being forced out of the sport in 2020 to becoming a key player at Red Bull, he has etched his name into Formula 1 history. While 2024 marked a challenging end to his time with the team, Perez’s contributions to Red Bull’s success cannot be understated.
As Coulthard put it:
“Checo has won lots of Grand Prix and can be incredibly proud of his career. He remains one of the paddock’s most respected figures, even if his time behind the wheel at Red Bull has come to an end.”