The contract of Sergio Perez with Red Bull is set to expire at the conclusion of the 2024 racing season, sparking speculation about several drivers eyeing the coveted seat alongside the team.
Sergio Perez has hinted that the decision regarding his continuation with Red Bull in Formula 1 might come to a head “within a month,” following a notably strong performance at the outset of the season.
Achieving his first podium at the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka, where he secured second place behind Max Verstappen, Perez ascended to the second position in the driver standings, surpassing Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc.
Perez’s standing with the team became uncertain after a series of underwhelming performances in the middle of the 2023 season, which led to speculation about Daniel Ricciardo and Yuki Tsunoda being considered for his seat to team up with Verstappen.
Carlos Sainz’s victory in Australia further fueled rumors about him being a contender to replace Perez. Despite the swirling rumors, Perez appeared unfazed, stating, “I am pretty relaxed about it, it is my 14th season in F1,” in a conversation with Sky Sports F1.
“Whatever comes next, I am really pleased with what I’ve done in the sport so far.
“I believe it will be a matter of time [before my future is decided] and obviously the driver market is moving and in the next few weeks, there will be a lot of movement for sure. I expect to know within a month what I am doing next year.”
Following Perez’s contribution to the team achieving its third first and second place finish in the first four races of the season, Christian Horner was questioned on when a decision regarding Perez’s future would be made.
Horner responded to inquiries from the press, stating, “The whole driver market seems to be very early this year, and everybody seems to be rushing around, and we’re four races into the year.
“We’re not in a huge rush, and obviously there is a significant amount of interest in our cars as you would expect, and Checo has the priority. But it is going to be a few more races before we start thinking about next year.”
