Sergio Perez has made it clear that he has no intention of stepping aside from his Red Bull race seat as rumors swirl about his potential departure following a tumultuous 2024 Formula 1 season. Speaking after his early exit from the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Perez confirmed that discussions with Red Bull over his future are imminent, but he remains resolute about staying on the grid.
Early DNF Adds Pressure in Abu Dhabi Finale
Perez’s season ended on a sour note at Yas Marina after being caught in a Lap 1 collision with Sauber’s Valtteri Bottas. The incident, which occurred as Bottas bounced over the Turn 6/7 kerbing into Perez’s car, forced the Mexican into an early retirement.
“I didn’t see Valtteri,” Perez said of the crash. “As I was doing the corner, I was hit very late on the rear. Then I lost drive. But I think the drive was already an issue before that because every time I was shifting up, I was losing power.”
The retirement came at a critical moment as Perez’s future at Red Bull is under intense scrutiny. The 34-year-old had hoped to make a statement with a strong performance, but instead, his premature exit leaves more questions than answers.
Perez Addresses Speculation and Future Talks
Speculation about Red Bull replacing Perez has grown louder in recent weeks, with names like Liam Lawson and Isack Hadjar circulating as potential successors. Despite this, Perez reaffirmed his commitment to his Red Bull contract.
“At the moment, I don’t know,” Perez admitted when asked about his future. “I just know I’ve got a contract to race next year unless something changes in the coming days.”
Pressed about why Red Bull figures such as Christian Horner and Helmut Marko are reportedly in talks with other drivers, Perez deflected: “That’s something you’ll have to ask them.”
Red Bull’s Alleged Push for a Role Change
Red Bull is reportedly attempting to negotiate an ambassadorial role for Perez to see out the remainder of his contract, which extends until 2026. This would allow the team to integrate a new driver into its lineup without severing ties with Perez entirely.
When asked if he would consider stepping down voluntarily, Perez was unequivocal: “No.”
“We’re going to be talking in the coming days,” Perez added. “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’s Tough Decisions Ahead
Perez’s struggle in 2024—finishing eighth in the Drivers’ Championship and falling 285 points behind teammate Max Verstappen—has placed Red Bull in a precarious position. The team, dethroned in the Constructors’ Championship by McLaren, cannot afford another season with such a stark disparity in driver performance.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner recently emphasized the importance of both drivers contributing consistently, particularly in a tighter competitive landscape for 2025.
“Having two drivers scoring on a regular and collective basis in the Constructors’ Championship is crucial,” Horner said. “Ferrari will be strong with their lineup next year, McLaren has a strong lineup, and Mercedes will have an inexperienced driver in one seat. For us, it’s very important that both of our drivers are delivering.”
What’s Next for Perez and Red Bull?
As the offseason begins, all eyes are on Red Bull’s next move. While Perez insists he won’t resign, the discussions in the coming days will determine whether he stays in a race seat or transitions to a non-competitive role within the team.
Regardless of the outcome, one thing is clear: Perez is not going down without a fight. “I’ve given a lot to this team, and I’m ready to keep fighting,” he said. Whether Red Bull shares that sentiment remains to be seen.