Modest eighth in the Formula 1 drivers' standings over the past season, Sergio Pérez was unable to help Red Bull retain its constructors' title. What push him towards the exit this winter? At McLaren, there is no doubt about the Mexican's future.
If Max Verstappen has become a little more legendary by winning a fourth consecutive F1 world champion title, Red Bull will not have made weight in the constructors' ranking. One of the main reasons being the mediocre season of the Austrian firm's other driver, Sergio Pérez.
The Mexican, second in the driver rankings in 2023, has just completed the 2024 financial year in eighth place, without having won a single Grand Prix. A fatal performance for Red Bull, which could well draw the consequences.
“No smoke without fire”, Zak Brown sees Pérez leaving
In recent hours, even Max Verstappen has not failed to send a little dig to his teammate Sergio Pérez. Future ex-teammate? It's quite possible. But sacking the Mexican would represent a significant cost for Red Bull. Also, the Austrian firm will have to find a successor who meets expectations.
In comments relayed by Marca, Zak Brown, executive director of McLaren Racing, first said: “Max Verstappen is a four-time world champion, he has done an incredible job. He had a teammate who wasn't up to par.” Before continuing:
“It seems understood that Max Verstappen will have a new teammate next year. There is no smoke without fire. There are a lot of rumors about this.“
Yuki Tsunoda could come and strengthen Red Bull and bring a breath of fresh air. For the moment, the Japanese driver appears on the drivers' grid for the 2025 season, but on the side of Racing Bulls. It remains to be seen whether a promotion is possible this winter. For Brown and McLaren, in any case, Pérez's days at Red Bull are numbered.
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