Red Bull Racing seems to be standing at the crossroads of its Formula One strategy, particularly concerning the future of Sergio Pérez, the team’s Mexican driver. With the season nearing its end, and the pressure mounting, tensions are palpable. It’s no surprise—Pérez has faced significant scrutiny throughout the 2024 season, with results far below those expected from the standout team.
The latest buzz surrounds Red Bull's advisor, Helmut Marko, who has now confirmed publicly what many have speculated: the decision about Pérez’s future will hinge on performances during the remaining races, particularly the finale at Abu Dhabi. Marko states, "That will be decided after the finale in Abu Dhabi. Checo is acting as if he would drive for us for another year." This statement, laden with ambiguity, has made the paddock and fans alike eager to decipher its meaning.
Pérez signed a contract extension earlier this year—which would theoretically keep him with Red Bull through 2026. Yet, his form has been concerning: scoring just 49 points over his last sixteen races. Meanwhile, six other drivers have amassed more points even when accounting for their occasional struggles. Such inconsistency is particularly glaring next to his teammate Max Verstappen, who, having just won his fourth consecutive title, continues to set records.
The stark disparity between the two drivers' performances isn’t just about points—it directly impacts Red Bull's position within the Constructors’ Championship. With McLaren currently leading, followed by Ferrari, Red Bull is at risk of finishing the season third, which some insiders suggest hasn't been experienced by the team for years.
Worse yet, Pérez’s discontent was on full display at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, where he performed poorly and was visibly frustrated. His qualifying session saw him knocked out early, claiming the 16th fastest time, which added to the mounting pressure for the Mexican racer. With each misfire on the track, discussions of replacements, such as Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson, gain more traction.
This has led to widespread speculation about whether Pérez's days at Red Bull are numbered. Observers noted he should have perhaps announced retirement during the Mexican GP rather than risk being pushed out, as former driver Marc Surer suggested. “He should have announced his retirement,” Surer stated, as various rumors swirl about Pérez's future and Red Bull's priorities.
The spotlight shines definitively on Pérez as the countdown to the Abu Dhabi race begins. There, his performance, as much as any contractual guarantees, will weigh heavily on his fate with the team. Marko's prior comments hint at disappointment with Pérez’s competitiveness and might even suggest there’s more at play than sole performance metrics. If Pérez can't resolve his issues with the RB20 car, it could lead him to the exit door next year.
Meanwhile, Verstappen remains the keystone of Red Bull's future direction. Marko has made it clear: the team prioritizes discussions with the star driver above all else, especially to maintain his allegiance amid whispers from rival teams.
The looming decision makes it evident—while Pérez’s future is uncertain, the pressure is on him to perform like never before. The coming weeks will not only decide Pérez's career paths but could also rewrite future chapters for Red Bull Racing. If Pérez fails to deliver, any semblance of job security may vanish faster than his chances for podium finishes this season.
