The 2024 Formula 1 season ended with a bitter outcome for Sergio Perez. With only 21 points scored in the last ten races, the Mexican driver finds itself at the center of an increasingly delicate situation. His future at Red Bull, one of the most competitive teams on the grid, seems to hang by a thread.
Internal discussions on Perez’s position
According to rumors, advisor Helmut Marko and Team Principal Christian Horner have undertaken in-depth talks to assess whether Perez should remain behind the wheel in the 2025 season. This discussion comes despite the contract extension signed with Perez just a few months ago, in June . Red Bull thus finds itself at a crossroadshaving to decide whether to continue with the Mexican or look to the future with a change of course.
The possible future: Lawson and Tsunoda
In the event of a separation with Perez, Red Bull could focus on a lineup composed of Liam Lawson or Yuki Tsunoda to support world champion Max Verstappen. Between the two, Lawson seems to enjoy particular appreciation from Markowho stated: “Liam Lawson reminds me of Bruce McLaren or Denny Hulme, he is a down to earth and mentally strong person.”
A comparison that is certainly not made lightly. Bruce McLaren and Denny Hulme are two icons of New Zealand Formula 1: the former is the founder of the team of the same name, one of the most successful in the history of the sport, while the latter became world champion in 1967 with Brabham. Inserting Lawson into this context shows how much Red Bull considers him an absolute promise.
Tsunoda: talent or risk?
If Lawson represents the face of stability and future potential, Yuki Tsunoda is instead a mix of talent and unknowns. The Japanese driver is known for his speed, but also for his fickleness. Helmut Marko did not hesitate to underline it: “Yuki is incredibly fast, but not consistent. We saw it in Mexico, for example. And it’s quite undisciplined for a Japanese driver, although this one has improved.”
A decisive test for Tsunoda
Despite the criticism, Tsunoda had the opportunity to show off during the post-season test in Abu Dhabi, driving the Red Bull RB20. This test, which took place under the careful supervision of the team, produced positive impressions.
Marko, in his column on Speedweekcommented on the Japanese’s performance as follows: “Tsunoda was allowed to take to the track with the RB20 during post-season testing and the team was pleased with his technical feedback. From this point of view it is much better than people say. He is just one of the many talents we have in our ranks.”
Honda’s role
A key element in this equation is the relationship between Tsunoda and the Honda Racing Corporation (HRC). The Japanese company has supported Tsunoda’s career since his early days, probably even more than Red Bull itself. This relationship may explain some of the dynamics behind the Milton Keynes decisions.
With Honda ready to leave Red Bull to supply its engines to Aston Martin starting from 2026, the hypothesis is growing stronger that the team wants to focus on completely “internal” drivers, like Lawson, free from external ties .
Read also: F1 | Perez in Red Bull in 2025: Why is he waiting so long to decide his future?
A look to 2025 and beyond
The final decision on Perez, Lawson and Tsunoda will be crucial to define the future of Red Bull. On the one hand, there is the need to guarantee continuity and competitiveness alongside Verstappen; on the other, there is the pressure to prepare for a future without Honda, choosing riders fully in line with the team’s strategy.
While Perez fights to keep his seat, Lawson and Tsunoda compete for the role of second driver, with 2025 shaping up to be a key transition season for the world champion team.
Cover photo, Credit: F1
Seguici sui social: Telegram – TikTok – Instagram – Facebook – Twitter
