Sergio Perez recently extended his contract with Red Bull. Today, during the press day before the Canadian Grand Prix, Perez spoke about his new contract with the Austrian team.
He is satisfied with it and even hopes to end his career at Red Bull, but confirms between the lines that Red Bull will demand more performance from him.
“I obviously feel happy that we reached an agreement. It really means that both sides are happy with what we got and happy to move forward. Obviously we have big goals ahead of us, “ he confides when asked if he has a performance requirement included in his contract.
While Perez is happy to be able to count on a longer stay at Red Bull, probably with added pressure on targets, he recognizes that the job at this top team is demanding. Between the lines we still understand that he will have to be more at the level of Max Verstappen.
“Red Bull is a team that really asks everything of you. It’s something that, since I’ve been here, has been about intensity. Everything! On the track, off the track… It’s a challenge that you don’t get anywhere else. I’ve never had this kind of challenge in my career, so when I sign, it’s because I’m really ready to take it on and give 100%.”
The pilot market is generally a Source of stress for pilots. Perez therefore does not deny having also spoken with other teams, but he says his focus has always been Red Bull.
“We’re still talking to different teams. There were other options, but for me, my plans A, B and C were definitely to stay at Red Bull. I really want to finish my career here, whenever that may be. is a team that has given me so much in my career that I am really happy and I just want to give my best for this team until my last lap.”
Many fans did not understand that Red Bull does not put someone more efficient in Verstappen’s “paws”. So a frank question was asked? Did Perez sign a new contract with Red Bull Racing just to give Verstappen peace of mind? The Mexican responded virulently.
“Bullshit! In Formula 1 there are always different agendas, and I understand that. Really. It’s something that has happened to every driver since we entered the sport, and I think the best “The thing to do is to just close the visor and concentrate on my work, on doing the best for myself, for my career.”
“What people have to say or not, I appreciate everyone having their opinion. But at the end of the day, I’m here to do the best I can for my career and I’m happy with what I’ve accomplished. And Red Bull wouldn’t extend my contract if I didn’t meet their expectations.”
Does he see himself in F1 for a long time?
“When we look at Fernando [Alonso] or even Lewis [Hamilton], there is still a long way to go. I think I haven’t signed my last contract. I don’t feel like I did that with this contract!”
