Red Bull hierarchy to discuss Sergio Perez’s future on Monday
After weeks of speculation following a series of poor performances, Sergio Perez's future with Red Bull should be settled on Monday after the Belgian Grand Prix, according to Helmut Marko.
The suspense should soon come to an end regarding Sergio Pérez’s future at Red Bull. While rumors are rife about a possible replacement as early as the summer break, special advisor Helmut Marko revealed at Spa that the hierarchy of the Austrian team will meet on Monday, right after the Belgian Grand Prix, to make a decision.
Pérez’s performances have indeed been judged insufficient compared to those of his teammate Max Verstappen. Despite a renewed contract at the beginning of the season, the Mexican is struggling to keep up with the reigning world champion. “Sergio knows that for the constructor’s championship, we need to have both cars ahead of McLaren,” Marko said, speaking on Red Bull’s television channel, ServusTV, before Saturday’s qualifying session. “And that hasn’t been the case in the last few races.”
A performance clause, which would link Perez’s tenure to a gap of less than 100 points with Verstappen, could seal his fate. With a current gap of 141 points, the Mexican seems to no longer hold the cards.
Who will replace Sergio Perez?
If Red Bull decides to part ways with Perez, several names are circulating to replace him. Daniel Ricciardo, Liam Lawson, and Yuki Tsunoda are all potential candidates. The Australian driver, in particular, seems well placed to make his return to the main team after his time at McLaren… But his performances also leave something to be desired.
On his part, Helmut Marko emphasized the importance of having two high-performing drivers to win world titles: “We can only live with this with difficulty,” he said, referring to Perez’s disappointing results.
The Belgian Grand Prix qualifying session also highlighted the gap between the two Red Bull drivers. Verstappen dominated the session, while Pérez benefited from a penalty from his teammate to start in second position. “Max is absolutely the best, especially in these conditions,” Marko insisted, rubbing salt in the wound for the Mexican.
This Monday’s meeting is therefore shaping up to be crucial for the future of Sergio Perez at Red Bull. He will have to convince his leaders to give him another chance, or prepare for a change of team. Perhaps even an exit from the premier category of motorsport…
