After losing his Red Bull seat at the end of 2024, Sergio Perez faces a year on the Formula 1 sidelines. But could the Mexican star find a new home in Formula E? According to his father, Antonio Perez, the electric racing series could be a fitting next chapter for the five-time Grand Prix winner.
Perez Sr., speaking at the Mexico City E-Prix, made headlines by hinting that his son might consider joining the rapidly growing series, which he boldly claimed would soon surpass Formula 1 in prominence.
“Formula E could soon be number one”
Appearing on the podium during the Mexico City E-Prix trophy ceremony, Perez Sr. shared his enthusiasm for the all-electric championship:
“I would never have imagined Formula E, and I would be careful because we could have Checo Pérez racing here,” he told Estadio Deportes.
“Of course, without any problem, [he could race in Formula E]. The category has been around for 11 years, it is very young. Today it is number two in the world, and within the next five years, it will be number one. That is why I am here. I am looking forward to what comes next.”
Formula E welcomes Perez with open arms
Perez Sr.’s remarks weren’t dismissed as idle speculation. Formula E co-founder Alberto Longo echoed the sentiment, saying the championship would gladly welcome the Mexican driver. However, Longo acknowledged that the decision ultimately lies with the teams:
“We welcome him with open arms,” said Longo. “But it’s not the decision of the championship’s promoters, which is us. It’s his decision, and then that of the main teams, because in the end, they are the ones who decide who sits in each of their cars.”
Perez’s fall from Red Bull grace
Perez’s exit from Red Bull was a dramatic culmination of a tumultuous 2024 campaign. After finishing runner-up to Max Verstappen in 2023, expectations were high. Instead, a decline in form saw him finish eighth in the standings, opening the door for Red Bull to promote Liam Lawson from its junior team.
Despite playing a critical supporting role for Verstappen during his Red Bull tenure, including unforgettable performances like his defensive masterclass against Lewis Hamilton in Abu Dhabi 2021, Perez’s inconsistency in 2024 ultimately sealed his fate.
Perez’s storied F1 career: A legacy worth honoring
Perez’s F1 journey began in 2011 with Sauber and was marked by a meteoric rise through the ranks. He claimed his first podiums in his sophomore season, earning a move to McLaren in 2013. Although that partnership faltered, Perez rebuilt his career with Force India (later Racing Point), claiming his first F1 victory at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix.
Red Bull offered Perez a lifeline in 2021, and he made the most of it with five victories and numerous clutch performances over four seasons. However, his dismissal leaves his future uncertain, with no immediate F1 seats available.
A new challenge for Perez?
While Formula 1 may no longer have a place for Perez in 2025, Formula E could provide an exciting fresh start. The series boasts a competitive field, groundbreaking technology, and a growing global audience. With teams like Jaguar, Porsche, and DS Penske leading the pack, Perez could find himself in a top-tier car, reigniting his competitive spirit.
Perez’s addition to Formula E would undoubtedly be a coup for the series, offering a high-profile name with a loyal fan base. Meanwhile, the Mexican driver could bring his experience, flair, and determination to a new challenge.
