The writing may be on the wall for Sergio Perez, as Red Bull’s Helmut Marko has confirmed that the Mexican driver’s future with the team will be decided after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Perez, who signed an extension earlier this year to remain with Red Bull until 2026, has faced mounting scrutiny following a lackluster 2024 season.
Marko: Decision After Abu Dhabi Finale
Marko, known for his no-nonsense evaluations, hasn’t been shy in addressing Perez’s struggles. Despite Perez assuring fans he’ll be on the grid for Red Bull in 2025, Marko remains noncommittal:
“That [Perez’s future] will be decided after the finale in Abu Dhabi. In any case, Checo is acting as if he would drive for us for another year.”
Perez’s performance has been a hot topic all season, as he has failed to meet expectations in a year where Red Bull’s RB20 struggled against resurgent McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes teams. While some blame the car’s development issues, critics argue Perez’s shortcomings as a driver are undeniable.
A Season to Forget
Once hailed as a dependable second driver for the dominant Red Bull team, Perez’s performance in 2024 has been anything but reliable. He last stood on the podium over 15 races ago and has routinely failed to deliver points critical to Red Bull’s constructors’ championship campaign. His recent P16-to-P10 showing in Las Vegas further highlighted his struggles, with former F1 driver Marc Surer openly questioning his place in the sport.
“He should have announced his retirement in Mexico,” Surer said, referencing the Mexican Grand Prix as a fitting stage for Perez to bow out gracefully.
Perez’s missteps have left Red Bull languishing in third place in the constructors’ standings, far behind McLaren and Ferrari. His inability to capitalize on the team’s early-season momentum has put Red Bull’s standing—and his career—in jeopardy.
What’s Next for Perez?
The upcoming Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix could be Perez’s last chance to prove he still belongs in a Red Bull seat. However, with his teammate Max Verstappen consistently delivering championship-level performances, the disparity in results has been glaring.
Rumors about Perez’s replacement have swirled for months, with drivers like Alex Albon, Yuki Tsunoda, and even Daniel Ricciardo tipped as potential successors. Marko’s comment signals that Red Bull is not only evaluating Perez’s driving but also the broader team dynamic heading into the next season.
A Legacy in the Balance
As the countdown to Abu Dhabi begins, Perez faces immense pressure to end his season on a high note. The decision on his future won’t just shape his legacy but could also signal a significant shift in Red Bull’s approach to securing its competitive edge in Formula 1.
Whether he stays or goes, one thing is certain: Perez’s underwhelming 2024 season will remain a talking point for years to come.
