Helmut Marko made it clear that Sergio Perez’s former teammate was not in the running to replace him in 2025. The upcoming 2024 F1 season is of great importance to many drivers as their contracts with their respective teams are about to expire. To secure their positions, these drivers must perform well throughout the season. Perez’s teammate will face immense pressure this year as a weak performance could result in his departure from Red Bull.
Marko recently discussed Perez’s status within the team and clarified that the former Red Bull driver was not the team’s first choice. Previous reports suggested that Albon had been offered the first opportunity to drive for Red Bull starting in 2026. However, Marko’s statement indicates that Albon is unlikely to join the Milton Keynes-based team anytime soon. The octogenarian also noted that Perez has not been able to consistently match Verstappen’s level of performance at Red Bull.
Marko emphasized that some wins and a high placement in the drivers’ championship could secure Perez’s position in the team for a longer period. He highlighted that the second seat at Red Bull, alongside the current world champion, was highly coveted. Marko even referred to it as an “ejector seat” due to the scarcity of drivers capable of matching Verstappen’s dominant performances in Formula 1.
The same energy drink company that sponsors Red Bull Racing also supports the current VCARB drivers. If these drivers excel in their respective teams during the 2024 season, they may have the opportunity to join one of the top Formula 1 teams. Marko suggested that either of the two could potentially replace Perez, depending on their performances throughout the season.
However, Marko made it clear that the driver who “dominates” within the team during the season would be promoted to the main team. However, all these discussions would become irrelevant if Perez performs well and avoids repeating the trajectory of his previous season. The RB20 car has the potential for a one-two result in the championship for the Red Bull drivers.
The 2024 season is of immense importance to Perez as it will determine his future in the sport. He must bring his best performance and strive to match, if not surpass, the performances of the current world champion within the team. Additionally, rival teams will soon catch up to Red Bull’s pace and offer fierce competition throughout the season.
