It was only a matter of hours, and for Checo it struck: Perez leave the Red Bull. A year earlier than the contract signed (with clauses) at the beginning of 2024. His disappointing performances cost the team the Constructors’ title: only 152 points for the 32-year-old Mexican, 8th in the final drivers’ standings, against 437 for Max Verstappen who won his fourth World title in a row. It will be announced shortly who will replace him to race alongside the Dutch champion. But the idea of calling is getting closer and closer Liam Lawsonthe 22 year old New Zealander from Racing Bullsthe Faenza team owned by Red Bull. Who will have to choose how to replace it next to Yuki Tsunoda: candidate is the French Algerian debutant, 20 years old, Isack Hadjar.
Perez’s farewell to Red Bull
Perez’s fate was sealed. Already after the last race in Abu Dhabi, the Red Bull leaders met to decide. The chances of remaining are now reduced to nothing, as the Mexican had now let us understand. “I am incredibly grateful for the last four years spent with Red Bull Racing and for the opportunity to race with such an extraordinary team,” says Checo in the official statement. “Driving for Red Bull was an unforgettable experience and I will cherish the successes we achieved together forever. We have broken records, achieved huge goals and I have had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people. It has also been an honor to race alongside Max as a teammate all these years and share our successes. Special thanks to fans around the world and especially to those in Mexico for their unwavering daily support. We’ll see you again soon. And remember… never give up.”
Horner: “Perez is Red Bull history”
The team principal greets him, Christian Hornerthus: “I would like to thank Checo for everything he has done for Red Bull over the last four seasons. From the moment he joined us in 2021, he has proven himself to be an extraordinary team man, helping us to two constructors’ titles and our first 1-2 in the drivers’ championship. His 5 successes, all on street circuits, were a spectacular sign of his determination to always push himself to the limit. Even if Checo will not race for the team next season, he will always be a valuable part of our history. Thanks, Checo.”
