Sergio Pérez surprised more than one Formula 1 observer in a recent interview he gave to GQ magazine.
Sergio Pérez, Mexican driver for the Red Bull team, has revealed that he has declined two offers from other teams for the 2025 F1 season, without revealing which ones. A surprising decision, when his future at Red Bull is far from assured, due to his poor performances this season.
If Pérez has a contract with Red Bull for 2025, his recent results cast doubt on his retention in the team. Indeed, over the last 15 races, he has only scored 48 points, a figure far removed from the stratospheric performances of his teammate Max Verstappen, who is heading towards a new world title.
This situation has fueled speculation about a possible replacement for Pérez, with names like Liam Lawson and Franco Colapinto mooted to take his place.
The choice to stay at Red Bull
Despite the uncertainties, Pérez says he deliberately chose to stay at Red Bull, turning down two opportunities elsewhere.
During an interview with GQhe confided: “I had the opportunity, two opportunities, to change teams. But I really like the challenge I have to face here. Being Max's teammate is a huge mission, which prepares you for everything. I want end my career at the top, where the pressure is the greatest.”
A bold choice, but risky, given that the pressure at Red Bull rests largely on his shoulders.
A difficult season under fire from critics
Pérez's disappointing performances don't help his position. Red Bull, which dominated the constructors' championship, fell to third place, behind McLaren and Ferrari. A situation which fuels criticism and speculation about the future of the Mexican pilot.
Pérez recognizes the brutality of the sport: “One or two bad races are enough for the criticism to fall. It's also linked to the culture of Red Bull, where everything is analyzed and debated. But in the end, there are 90% of the grid who would dream to have my career.”
A merciless sport
Aware of the difficulty of his position, Pérez seems determined to silence the critics by focusing on what comes next: “As a driver, you're always thinking about the next race, the next challenge. Sometimes it's good to take a step back and measure how far you've come. But F1 is a ruthless sport.”
It remains to be seen whether Sergio Pérez will be able to convince Red Bull to trust him for 2025 or if his days within the Austrian team are numbered.
