Formula 1: Sergio Perez, Red Bull Part Ways Prematurely
Sergio Perez is expected to be replaced by 22-year-old New Zealander Liam Lawson, in a promotion from the sister Racing Bulls team.
Sergio Perez is set to leave Red Bull with immediate effect. The Mexican driver who joined Red Bull in 2021 was contracted with the team till 2026, but a dip in his recent performances had set the stage for his early exit.
Perez finished the 2024 season in eighth in the drivers’ championship, with the team failing to defend their constructors’ championship. The Mexican scored just nine points in the last eight Grand Prix weekends of the 2024 season.
The 34-year-old remained resolute that he would race for the team next year, but both the parties decided to part ways following deliberations.
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“I’m incredibly grateful for the past four years with Red Bull Racing and for the opportunity to race with such an amazing team.
“Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience and I’ll always cherish the successes we achieved together.”
Sergio Perez is expected to be replaced by 22-year-old New Zealander Liam Lawson, in a promotion from the sister Racing Bulls team.
Lawson, who drove six races at the end of 2024 and five during 2023, is said to have been told he would be promoted before the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The RB team said that “announcements regarding the team’s full 2025 line-up will be made in due course”.
Christian Horner, RB team principal added, “I would like to thank Checo [Perez] for all he has done for Red Bull Racing over the past four seasons.
“From the moment he joined in 2021 he proved himself to be an extraordinary team player, helping us to two constructors’ titles and to our first one-two finish in the drivers’ championship.
“While Checo will not race for the team next season, he will always be an extremely popular team member and a treasured part of our history.”
Perez secured five wins with RB, including victory in Monaco, over 90 starts with the team and played a pivotal role in RB winning the constructors’ championship in 2022 and 2023.
“It’s been an absolute pleasure driving alongside you,” Max Verstappen posted on social media.
“We’ve had some amazing moments together that I’ll always remember.”
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