Sergio Perez’s dismal performance in the 2024 Formula 1 season has sent shockwaves through Red Bull Racing, with reports strongly suggesting that the Mexican driver’s future with the team is all but over. As the season finale looms in Abu Dhabi, Red Bull faces a critical decision: who will partner Max Verstappen in 2025?
Perez’s Decline: From Title Hopeful to a Liability
Entering 2024, Perez was expected to challenge Verstappen and solidify Red Bull’s dominance. Instead, his performance has nosedived, leaving him a distant 8th in the Drivers’ Standings with just 152 points. The failure to capitalize on Red Bull’s championship-winning RB20 car has become a glaring issue, especially as Verstappen clinched another title and fought single-handedly to keep the team in contention for the Constructors’ Championship.
Perez’s struggles include frequent Q1 eliminations, a string of unforced errors, and a failure to adapt to the challenging RB20. The consequences? Red Bull finds itself on the brink of losing the Constructors’ Championship for the first time since 2020.
Who Replaces Perez?
1. Liam Lawson: The Rising Star
The New Zealand rookie has impressed Red Bull with his calm demeanor and steady performances in the sister team. Lawson’s mid-season debut as a substitute showcased his ability to deliver under pressure, earning him the top spot in Red Bull’s succession plan.
2. Yuki Tsunoda: The Underdog
While initially overlooked, Tsunoda’s improved maturity and consistency in 2024—coupled with Honda’s ongoing support—make him a wildcard. Red Bull may yet decide to give him the chance to prove himself alongside Verstappen.
Perez’s Future: Out of the Sport?
With his current multi-year contract tying him to Red Bull through 2026, reports suggest Perez could be offered an ambassadorial role within the Red Bull organization, much like David Coulthard in previous years. However, with no other viable team options in Formula 1 and his performances making it hard to justify a competitive seat elsewhere, Perez may face the painful reality of exiting the sport altogether.
Christian Horner hinted at this during the Qatar GP, stating:
“I’m going to let Checo come to his own conclusions; nobody’s forcing him one way or another.”
Despite these statements, it appears Red Bull has already decided to part ways with Perez for competitive reasons.
What’s Next for Red Bull?
Red Bull is poised for a challenging transition as it prepares for the final year of the ground-effect era in 2025. The departure of key personnel, Perez’s lack of form, and external controversies have destabilized the team. While Verstappen remains the cornerstone of Red Bull’s success, securing a reliable second driver will be critical to reclaiming dominance.
Expect Liam Lawson to be announced as Verstappen’s 2025 teammate in a move aimed at reinvigorating the team’s fortunes. Meanwhile, Red Bull will face scrutiny for how it manages the fallout of Perez’s likely exit.
Final Lap for Perez
For Sergio Perez, Abu Dhabi will likely mark the end of his journey at Red Bull, if not in Formula 1 entirely. From his triumphant wins with Racing Point to his rollercoaster tenure at Red Bull, Perez’s career has been a tale of highs and lows. However, in the cutthroat world of F1, past glories mean little without current results.
