Red Bull leaves Perez to decide his own F1 future ahead of Abu Dhabi finale
Sergio Perez faces uncertainty at Red Bull following a challenging 2024 season that saw him secure only four podiums and currently sits eighth in the drivers' championship. The significant 277-point gap to teammate Max Verstappen and Red Bull's loss of the constructors' championship has prompted a post-season shareholder meeting to discuss his future.
Driver in white cap racing suit
Team principal Christian Horner acknowledges Perez's difficult year, emphasizing the team's support through the Abu Dhabi finale while allowing him to "come to his own conclusions" about his future. Despite Perez having two years remaining on his contract, Red Bull remains noncommittal about his position beyond Abu Dhabi.
"Checo can't be enjoying the situation that he's got at the moment," Horner stated, adding that all driver-related discussions will be handled privately. The team's immediate focus remains on helping Perez finish the season strongly in Abu Dhabi.
If Red Bull decides to make changes, potential replacements could come from within their driver development program. Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda are prime candidates for promotion, while F2 title contender Isack Hadjar is being considered for an RB seat over Franco Colapinto.
Horner emphasized Red Bull's strong junior program, noting the close performance between Lawson and Tsunoda, while also highlighting Hadjar's impressive Formula 2 campaign. The team continues to monitor talent both within their program and across the broader Formula 1 market.