We all knew this was coming, but that doesn’t make the news any less shocking – Sergio Perez is leaving Red Bull! Want the latest scoop? Then, keep watching, as we here at Supercars.com.GH are here to tell you all about it.
The news broke on the 20th, as it was announced that Sergio Perez and Red Bull Racing would be going their separate ways after four seasons together. The Mexican driver, who joined the team in 2021, had a rollercoaster ride with the Milton Keynes outfit, with highs including 5 race victories and a crucial role in helping Red Bull win the Constructors’ Championship in 2022 and 2023, and lows like his disappointing 2024 season.
Perez’s arrival at Red Bull in 2021 was a significant departure from the team’s usual policy of promoting drivers from their junior program. After struggling with the performances of Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon alongside Max Verstappen, Red Bull opted for experience with Perez. The Mexican delivered, contributing significantly to the team’s success, particularly in his crucial role as “Minister of Defence” in the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where he delayed Lewis Hamilton, ultimately allowing Verstappen to clinch his first world championship.
However, Perez’s 2024 season was a significant disappointment. Despite a promising start with four podium finishes in the opening five races, his form dramatically deteriorated, mirroring the team’s loss of dominance at the front of the grid. This decline in performance, coupled with Verstappen’s continued dominance, created a significant gap in points between the two drivers, putting immense pressure on Perez.
This pressure, in turn, seemed to add to his struggles, leading to a vicious cycle of declining performance and increasing pressure. While there were occasional flashes of his old form, such as in Azerbaijan, they were inconsistent and ultimately insufficient to prevent a significant drop in points and a disappointing P3 overall for the team in the Constructors’ Championship.
Red Bull, despite extending Perez’s contract in June, ultimately decided to part ways with the Mexican driver. This decision likely stems from a combination of factors, including Perez’s declining performance, the team’s desire to promote a young driver from their junior program, and the need to maintain a competitive edge in the face of increasing competition from rivals like Ferrari and McLaren.
Perez’s departure marks the end of an era for the Mexican driver at Red Bull. While his time with the team had its highs and lows, he undoubtedly played a crucial role in their recent success. Make sure to stay in touch with Supercars.com.GH throughout this off-season for the latest breaking news from the sport we all know and love!