As Sergio Perez steps away from Formula 1 following a challenging final season, the narrative around his career shouldn’t focus solely on his shortcomings in 2024. Instead, Perez’s time in F1 deserves recognition for his incredible journey, remarkable achievements, and the personal integrity he brought to the sport.
Perez’s 2024 Struggles: A Chapter, Not the Whole Story
Perez’s final year with Red Bull Racing was far from the fairy-tale ending fans might have hoped for. Early-season promise gave way to struggles as the team’s development faltered, leaving Perez unable to consistently challenge at the front. Compounding the frustration was the relentless pressure of competing alongside Max Verstappen, who was operating at the peak of his powers.
Despite finishing the 2023 season as runner-up in the Drivers’ Championship, Perez couldn’t carry that momentum forward. A string of mistakes and a drop in confidence saw him slip out of contention, eventually leading to a mutual agreement with Red Bull to part ways.
However, focusing solely on Perez’s 2024 campaign overlooks the breadth of his contributions to Formula 1 over the past 13 years.
The Making of a Midfield Maestro
From the moment Perez entered F1 with Sauber in 2011, his talent was evident. Known for his uncanny ability to preserve tires and execute daring strategies, he quickly became a formidable force in the midfield. His three podium finishes with Sauber in 2012—including an unforgettable charge to second place at the Malaysian Grand Prix—cemented his reputation as a driver capable of punching above his weight.
While his move to McLaren in 2013 didn’t yield the success many anticipated, Perez found his stride with Force India/Racing Point, spending seven years as one of the grid’s most consistent performers. He delivered podiums for a team often lacking the resources of its competitors, proving himself as a driver who could maximize every ounce of performance from his car.
The Bahrain Miracle: A Career-Defining Moment
Perez’s career-defining moment came in the twilight of his tenure with Racing Point at the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix. After being involved in a first-lap incident that dropped him to the back of the field, Perez staged an extraordinary comeback to claim his maiden F1 victory. It was a race that showcased his resilience, racecraft, and unwavering determination—qualities that had come to define his career.
That victory not only secured his place in F1 folklore but also caught the attention of Red Bull Racing, who brought him on board for the 2021 season.
A Red Bull Journey Full of Highs and Lows
Joining Red Bull was both a reward for Perez’s persistence and a monumental challenge. The team needed a driver who could consistently support Verstappen in his championship battles, and Perez delivered some crucial performances, particularly during the 2021 season.
His defensive masterclass against Lewis Hamilton at the Turkish Grand Prix and his selfless driving at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix played pivotal roles in Verstappen’s maiden championship win. These moments exemplified Perez’s team-first mentality, even when the personal accolades weren’t forthcoming.
In 2023, Perez enjoyed his most successful campaign, winning two races and finishing second in the standings. However, the gap to Verstappen—both on and off track—was evident, and by 2024, the relationship between driver and team had frayed under mounting pressure.
Legacy Beyond the Track: A Driver Who Gave Back
Perez’s legacy extends far beyond his on-track exploits. His actions in saving Force India from financial collapse in 2018 stand as a testament to his character. By initiating the team’s administration process, Perez helped secure the jobs of over 400 employees, ensuring the team’s survival and eventual transformation into Aston Martin.
Perez has also been a proud ambassador for his home country of Mexico, using his platform to inspire a new generation of motorsport fans. Through his charitable foundation, he has worked to improve the lives of underprivileged children in Mexico, demonstrating a commitment to giving back.
What’s Next for Perez?
While Perez’s time in F1 appears to have reached its conclusion, he remains an attractive prospect for other racing series. With his popularity in Latin America and his proven race-winning ability, opportunities in WEC, IMSA, or even a role with Cadillac F1 in 2026 could provide avenues for a second act in his career.
How Perez Should Be Remembered
Sergio Perez may not have been a World Champion, but his career was a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the ability to thrive in the face of adversity. From his Sauber podiums to his Racing Point heroics and Red Bull triumphs, Perez’s journey through F1 is one of the most inspiring of the modern era.
As F1 moves into a new era with a wave of young talent, Perez’s contributions to the sport deserve to be celebrated—not for his struggles, but for the moments of brilliance, courage, and selflessness that defined his career. For fans across the globe, Perez will remain a symbol of what it means to fight, adapt, and never give up.