Red Bull Racing announces Sergio Pérez’s departure after four seasons, with his 2025 replacement yet to be disclosed.
This was the announcement expected in recent weeks: Sergio Pérez will not continue with Red Bull Racing in 2025, despite being under contract with the team until 2026. The Mexican driver was ultimately dismissed after a disastrous 2024 season, as confirmed by the Austrian team.
Pérez had secured a two-year contract extension due to internal team dynamics between director Christian Horner and consultant Helmut Marko. However, his performance dramatically declined afterward.
Negotiations ensued, even as Pérez clung to his contract to counter persistent rumors until the final race in Abu Dhabi, where he tacitly acknowledged differing visions between himself and the team.
“After four successful seasons together and following the conclusion of the longest Formula 1 season in history, Sergio Pérez and Red Bull Racing have agreed to part ways for 2025,” the team announced.
The Mexican driver expressed gratitude for his time with the team: “I am incredibly grateful for these four years with Oracle Red Bull Racing and the opportunity to race with such an amazing team.”
“Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience, and I will always cherish the successes we achieved together. We broke records, reached remarkable milestones, and I had the privilege of meeting many incredible people along the way.”
“A big thank you to everyone in the team — management, engineers, mechanics, catering, hospitality, kitchen staff, marketing, and communications — and everyone at Milton Keynes. I wish you all the best for the future.”
“It was also an honor to race alongside Max as a teammate over the years and share in our success. A special thanks to fans worldwide, particularly Mexican fans, for your unwavering support every single day. We’ll meet again soon. And remember… never give up.”
The identity of Max Verstappen’s new teammate remains uncertain, but team principal Christian Horner praised Pérez: “I want to thank Checo for everything he has done for Oracle Red Bull Racing over the past four seasons.”
“Since joining us in 2021, he has proven to be an extraordinary team player, helping us secure two Constructors’ Championships and our first Drivers’ Championship one-two.”
“His five victories, all on street circuits, were a spectacular testament to his determination to always push the limits. Although Checo will not race for the team next season, he will always be a highly popular member of the team and an invaluable part of our history. Thank you, Checo.”
As for the name of the replacement, we will have to wait a few more hours or days, likely out of respect for Pérez.
“The announcement regarding the full team lineup for 2025 will be made in due course,” the team stated.
Liam Lawson is the favorite to be promoted by Red Bull Racing alongside Verstappen. The New Zealander has reportedly impressed team management and would be the first near-rookie driver to join the team since Alex Albon during the 2019 season.
Yuki Tsunoda is therefore unlikely to receive his much-anticipated promotion despite four strong seasons with AlphaTauri and RB F1 and a very convincing test in Abu Dhabi last week. If confirmed, he will remain the leader of the second team, which will officially be named Racing Bulls in 2025.
Alongside him, a third French driver could join the grid, as Isack Hadjar appears to be the frontrunner for a promotion to F1 after finishing second in the Formula 2 championship behind Gabriel Bortoleto this season.
- Discover More>Steiner Calls Wolff’s Hamilton Remark “Nonsense”
- Follow us on >Facebook and >Twitter for F1 updates.
Pérez Out at Red Bull; Team Awaits 2025 Lineup Reveal Pérez Out at Red Bull; Team Awaits 2025 Lineup Reveal
