Helmut Marko is clear: Sergio Perez’s future with Red Bull will only be decided at the end of the 2024 Formula 1 season. Despite the confirmation during the summer break, which quelled rumors of an early dismissal, the Mexican driver remains in a precarious position, and his recent results don’t exactly help his chances of staying.
“Sergio Perez may have a contract, but Formula 1 is a performance-based sport,” said the Austrian advisor, once again addressing the speculation surrounding the Guadalajara native in an interview with F1-Insider. “If the performance isn’t there, contracts are meaningless. At the end of the season, we’ll sit down together and then decide who is the best teammate for Max Verstappen at Red Bull.” – he pointed out.
The Liam Lawson threat
Complicating Sergio Perez’s situation further is Liam Lawson. The young New Zealander, in his first Formula 1 race back after a year relegated to the role of Red Bull’s third driver, made an immediate impact during the Austin weekend, securing a stunning ninth place after starting from the back.
“He posted incredibly fast and consistent times, so it was a really fantastic debut,” commented the Austrian, praising the 22-year-old from Hastings. “Young drivers need to be given a chance.”
Liam Lawson’s performance also impressed many in the paddock, with Martin Brundle commenting: “This is exactly the type of performance Lawson needs to deliver. If he can keep it up, I can see him as Verstappen’s teammate at Red Bull next year.”
“I’m not saying this personally, but I think Sergio Perez’s time is over,” former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher added – “Red Bull should react. Liam Lawson has already shown what he’s capable of in Austin. If he continues like this, there will be no way to avoid the swap.” – he concluded.
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