Are we about to see the disappointing end of what was once a promising F1 career? It definitely seems to be heading in that direction for Sergio Perez, as his 2023 mid-season struggles seem to be back with a vengeance again in 2024. And, with Red Bull's rivals closing in on the team, on track and in the Constructors Championship, there could be no worse time for things to be going so drastically wrong for the Mexican driver, despite a recent contract extension that ends at the end of 2026. So, it begs the question, what should Red Bull do with their driver that is under-performing so regularly?
It's a shame and a disappointment that we're still having to have the same conservation surrounding Perez's performances. But surely, the simple yet notorious answer for the team would be to end his misery before it gets worse. It sounds harsh, but this is F1, it's a doggy-dog world and Red Bull are no strangers to dropping drivers based on their performances. So, why have they kept Perez for as long as they have during his period of disappointing race results? Well, it was reported, via the F1 website, that"continuity and unity between team mates" was the best option for the team going forward. An interesting thought now that the likes of McLaren, Mercedes and Ferrari are quickly gaining traction in the Championship battle, leaving Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen to fend for the team himself while Perez fights for the lower end of the points.
Credit were it is due to Perez, his early F1 career was promising, with an impressive debut podium at the 2012 Malaysian Grand Prix that saw many speculate over a future move to Ferrari - yes, that failed to come to fruition, with him instead choosing McLaren. Ok, his McLaren career was nothing to scream and shout about, but once back in the mid-field with Force India/Racing Point, he found his old, decent racing ways. To date, his F1 statistics include six race wins, thirty nine podiums and three pole positions; more than enough to make you think that he is a decent race driver. Can you really be surprised at many an F1 fans shock at the thought of Perez not making the 2021 grid after being dropped by Racing Point? Media outlet, The Race reported that it would be a "huge injustice were Perez not to be on the 2021 grid." Even Martin Brundle suggested that Perez "should be on Red Bull Racing's radar." Did he know something we didn't?
Perez is not the first driver to struggle mentally and physically at Red Bull. In fact, he is just one of a string of drivers who have experienced similarities. Ironically replacing Alexander Albon that was dropped in favour of him. It does make you question the ethics of the team.
But for Perez, his struggles haven't mattered as much as they do now. With rivals getting ever so closer, he HAS to perform better. Verstappen may have proved himself the better Red Bull driver, but there is no way he can be expected to protect Red Bull's Championship Crown alone. Although, I wouldn't put it past him to try. With Perez being given only a few races to improve, before his newly signed contract could potentially and humiliatingly be ripped up in front of him, rumours are beginning to do the rounds as to who his successor could be. And, Red Bull seem to have several options if it comes to this.
So, who could be the lucky driver to replace Perez, if needs must? Several names seem to be in the fray, specifically drivers that have, or have had, ties with Red Bull at some point. You’re looking at your Daniel Ricciardo’s, Liam Lawson’s and Carlos Sainz’s; although, the latter is looking less likely as the days go by. But, what about Yuki Tsunoda? It’s unfortunate that his name doesn’t crop up regularly regarding this matter, especially as he has done well in 2024 to match/out race teammate; Ricciardo. Regardless, if rumours in and around the F1 paddock are to be believed, Ricciardo looks like the most likely candidate. Kind of surprising when you look at his recent form with VCARB and McLaren, unsurprisingly when you know of the past that Ricciardo and Red Bull have shared. Their desire for his return has been no secret, and they seem to believe he still has potential. I can’t be the voice of opinion for fans.
As for Perez, Red Bull's Motorsport Advisor; Helmut Marko, has confirmed that a Performance Clause exists within the Mexican's Red Bull contract, providing the team the opportunity to terminate the contract, if need be. And, with Perez currently, at the time of writing, sitting 6th in the Driver's Championship on 118 points, compared to Verstappen's 1st and 255 points, many outsiders believe this could be enough of a difference to get the ball rolling on that termination. Ouch.
What's next for the under performing driver? He's been given a couple of races to improve his form, with a decision over his future to be made in the Summer break. It's a great shame seeing Perez have significant drops in his performance like he does. He is more than capable of fighting at the front, as he proved in the first half of 2024. But, this is motorsport, specifically the "pinnacle" of motorsport. It's mentally and physically demanding. It is, indeed, cut throat. I just hope he can somehow salvage a dying career.
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