Sergio Perez and Red Bull part ways. The long-anticipated news was made official today. “I am incredibly grateful for the last four years with Red Bull Racing,” Perez commented. “I had the opportunity to race with an extraordinary team and live an unforgettable experience that I will always carry with me. We broke records, reached incredible milestones, and along the way, I had the privilege of meeting amazing people with whom I had the honor of working.”
The disappointing results of the recently concluded season led Red Bull management to the only possible decision, ending Perez’s contract early. Originally signed last summer and set to expire at the end of 2026, it was terminated through a performance-related clause. The early termination was heavily influenced by the team’s third-place finish in the Constructors’ Championship, resulting in significant financial losses.
“I want to sincerely thank everyone on the team,” Perez continued, “management, engineers, mechanics, catering, hospitality, kitchen staff, marketing, and communications, as well as everyone working at the Milton Keynes headquarters. I wish you all the best for the future. It was also an honor to race alongside Max and share in our success.” The separation between ‘Checo’ and Red Bull does not include future collaborations as an ambassador for the Austrian group, contrary to speculation during the Abu Dhabi weekend.
“I want to thank Checo for his contribution to our team,” commented Christian Horner. “From the moment he joined Red Bull Racing in 2021, he proved to be an extraordinary member of the team, helping us win two Constructors’ titles and achieve our first ‘one-two’ finish in the Drivers’ Championship. His five victories, all on street circuits, were a spectacular testament to his determination to push himself to the limit. While Checo will not race with us next season, he will always remain a valuable part of our history. Thank you!”
The end of Red Bull’s collaboration with Perez paves the way for Liam Lawson’s promotion. The announcement of the New Zealand driver’s move to the team is expected in the coming days, along with Isack Hadjar’s entry into Racing Bulls.
For Perez, a definitive farewell to Formula 1 at the age of 34 seems likely. However, it cannot be ruled out that Sergio may explore other opportunities in 2025, though finding a seat with a competitive team will be difficult after many key agreements this season secured the top seats through 2026. After 14 seasons in Formula 1, which began with his debut for Sauber in 2011, Perez may have to settle for a reserve role.
His résumé highlights his first F1 victory, achieved in 2020 at the Sakhir circuit with Racing Point—a success that opened the doors to Red Bull in December of that year. Over the next four seasons, ‘Checo’ achieved five more victories, finishing third in the 2022 World Championship and second in 2023. However, his eighth-place finish in the recently concluded season (four podiums and no wins) proved fatal for his future with Red Bull and, for now, in Formula 1.
Leave a Reply