Sergio Pérez is certainly stirring up a storm. It’s no secret that Red Bull’s top brass will soon make a decision about his future within the team. After a particularly disappointing season, the situation seems to have become untenable. However, Pérez is holding on to his new two-year contract. Reportedly, a legal battle is now raging between both parties, as Checo is not willing to voluntarily give up his seat.
In the media, Sergio Pérez continues to insist that he is allowed to fulfill his contract with Red Bull. Despite the mediocre performances of the past season, he sees no reason to bow out early. Even now, as multiple sources report that he would be replaced by Visa RB talent Liam Lawson, the 34-year-old driver refuses to voluntarily say goodbye to his spot at Red Bull. Former champion Nico Rosberg is convinced that Pérez is clinging to his new agreement, with all the consequences that entails.
“Sergio Pérez is, for me, one of the biggest mysteries of the past season,” said the German in a broadcast of Sky Sports. “How can you fall so drastically out of form? All signs, of course, point to him having to leave next year, but he won’t confirm anything because he still has a new contract in place. That agreement is – from what I’ve heard – worth about sixteen million dollars. He naturally wants to see that money, which makes it difficult for Red Bull to just send him away. I think that at this moment, a legal battle is primarily being fought.”
New Teammate for Verstappen
If Red Bull succeeds in relieving Pérez of his duties, the question remains as to who will replace him. According to the latest rumors, Liam Lawson is the most likely candidate, although it was Yuki Tsunoda who took a seat in the RB20 during the so-called post-season test. “It’s a tough decision,” said Rosberg. “The options are not fantastic, as Lawson lacks experience. Still, I think they will choose him. Tsunoda’s performance this year was not that great either.”
“I will be somewhat relieved when Pérez is gone from Red Bull,” added former driver Martin Brundle. “It must be hell for him right now. He has lost all his motivation. The pressure to have to try every day must be very painful.” As for Pérez’s replacement, Brundle is in the dark. “There is no clear solution,” he concluded. “This is the price you pay for having Max Verstappen.”
