Sergio Pérez leaves Red Bull ; Liam Lawson takes over!

Sergio Pérez and Red Bull have decided to part ways, thus ending the Mexican driver’s adventure with the Formula 1 team.

Red Bull driver Liam Lawson is expected to be announced as Pérez’s replacement in the coming days.

Pérez, whose declining form cost Red Bull this year’s constructors’ title, had been discussing the next steps on his contract since the start of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend.

Although an offer for an ambassador role was made, Pérez chose to opt out of his contract with Red Bull completely.

“I am extremely grateful for the last four years with Oracle Red Bull Racing and for the opportunity to race with such an incredible team,” said Pérez.

“Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience and I will always cherish the successes we have achieved together. We’ve broken records, reached remarkable milestones, and I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many great people along the way.

“It was also an honor to run alongside Max [Verstappen] as a teammate all these years and to share in our success.”

Pérez signed a two-year contract extension last June, but his slump in performance pushed Red Bull to explore other options.

The choice will allow him to seek racing opportunities elsewhere in 2025, although no seats are available in Formula 1 at the moment.

His next steps remain uncertain.

Formula 1 has an agreement in principle with General Motors to add a Cadillac team to the grid in 2026.

Given Pérez’s high popularity in the North American market, he could be a prime candidate for an opportunity there.

“I would like to thank Checo [Pérez] for everything he has done for Oracle Red Bull Racing over the past four seasons,” added team principal Christian Horner. “From the moment he arrived in 2021, he proved himself to be an exceptional teammate, helping us to two constructors’ titles and our first double victory in the drivers’ championship.

“His five victories, all on street circuits, are also a spectacular testimony to his determination to always reach his limits.

“Although Checo will not be racing for the team next season, he will always remain a much-loved member of the team and a valuable part of our history. Thank you, Checo.”