Sergio Perez’s future at Red Bull beyond 2024 remains open, hinging on his performance in the final year of his contract, with 2025’s decision resting on his upcoming season.
Red Bull has shown its commitment to Perez by keeping him for the 2024 season. However, the team has made it clear that they expect him to consistently perform better and compete closer to the front of the pack. Only then will they consider offering him a new contract.
Red Bull is in no hurry to make a decision about who will be Max Verstappen’s teammate in 2025. They have the luxury of time and other options, such as Daniel Ricciardo, who can step in if needed. They want to carefully evaluate all their choices before making a final call.
Red Bull team boss, Christian Horner, admitted that it is crucial for both cars to perform at their best, especially with rival teams expected to close in next year.
“I think the luxury position we’re in, is that we’re not in any rush. We’ve got loads of options and I think it is Checo’s seat to lose.” Horner said.
“He’s the one that we’re backing. He’s our 2024 driver. And if he does a great job next year, there’s no reason that we wouldn’t extend him into 2025.
“But it’d be purely based on what he achieves over what will be a large part of the season.” Horner added.
While Verstappen has been dominating the field, Perez has faced challenges and found himself battling in the midfield.
Horner believes that racing alongside Verstappen may not be easy, but it should not be an excuse for the team’s second car to lag behind.
“I think that being Max’s team-mate is tough, and I think that you’ve got to have a certain resolve and character to be prepared to go up against Max,” Horner said.
“But as the field converges, it is inevitable that you want your two cars as close together as you can achieve.” he added.
