Red Bull’s Dilemma: Perez Out, Tsunoda in, Suggests Herbert

Red Bull’s hopes hinge on swift action, as Johnny Herbert calls for Perez’s departure to safeguard their championship position.

Has Sergio Perez’s Time Finally Come?

Yesterday, in Mexico, even with the support of his home crowd, Sergio Perez failed to progress beyond Q1, while Max Verstappen was vying for pole position.

This outcome was a significant blow for Perez and did little to impress the Mexican media.

Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert believes that Red Bull needs to part ways with Perez immediately to secure their second place in the Constructors’ Championship.

According to Herbert, the decision should have been made long ago. As a current FIA steward, he insists that action is needed before it’s too late.

“Red Bull is at risk of losing second place in the Constructors’ Championship because they only have one driver capable of delivering results. Sergio is not performing well enough, so will they replace him now?”

“I believe they should, if they are serious about maintaining that second place… They need to act as soon as possible if they want to achieve this. For me, the change should have come earlier.”

As for a potential replacement, Herbert would like to see Yuki Tsunoda given the green light.

“In my view, Yuki Tsunoda should step in. Yuki has delivered impressive performances this year. He has also shown great consistency. His qualifying results have been very, very strong…”

“I’d love to see someone like Yuki get this opportunity because I think he’s earned it. Facing Max is a tough challenge, but given his consistency, I believe he might not match Max’s speed, but he won’t be too far behind.”

Herbert highlighted that the evidence has mounted against Perez, emphasizing how mid-season driver changes have proven effective this year, including within RB F1.

“Other teams have made changes this season, and it’s worked. Liam Lawson appears to have a natural ability to step up. Another driver who has been very impressive and is gaining strength is Franco Colapinto.”