Bernie Collins, the former strategist for Aston Martin, has voiced her concerns about the persisting issue with Red Bull’s ‘second seat’. This follows after the team’s decision to part ways with Mexican driver Sergio Perez, thereby concluding his four-year tenure with Red Bull. The 2024 F1 season proved challenging for Perez, as his performance fell short of expectations, leading to a disappointing tally of just 67 points after the China Grand Prix.
This predicament isn’t new to Red Bull. Previously, the team witnessed Sebastian Vettel clinch four consecutive titles from 2010 to 2013, while his teammate barely made a dent. Collins has highlighted the need for Red Bull to address this issue and ensure that the second driver’s contribution is significant. She emphasized the importance of the second seat in contributing towards the team’s overall performance and standing in the Constructors’ Championship.
Perez’s departure from Red Bull was not without its share of drama. The 2024 season saw him grappling with rumors about his impending exit, which were finally confirmed in mid-December. Despite displaying promise early in the season with four podium finishes in the first five races, Perez was unable to sustain the momentum. He managed to secure a paltry nine points in the last eight races of the season.
Collins, who has previously worked with Perez during his stint at Force India/Racing Point, expressed her frustration at the situation. She noted that despite his tenure with Red Bull, Perez was unable to match the performance of his teammate, Max Verstappen. She expressed her doubts about whether Red Bull was doing enough to harness the potential of the second seat.
Drawing from her experience working with Perez at McLaren and Force India, Collins praised his strategic capabilities and mental strength. She pointed out that Perez’s ability to turn around a poor qualifying result demonstrated his resilience and commitment. However, she questioned whether Red Bull as a team was able to effectively utilize these traits and optimize the performance of the second driver.
In her opinion, the key to resolving this issue lies in understanding and addressing the unique requirements of the second seat. This would include assessing the need for modifications to the car and the supportive structure around the driver. She emphasized that no driver has managed to match Verstappen’s performance, indicating a possible need for change.
Collins concluded her commentary by expressing her disappointment at Perez’s departure and emphasizing Red Bull’s need to make the second seat work effectively. According to her, the team’s continued success in the Constructors’ Championship hinges on their ability to get the best out of whoever occupies the second seat.
