Perez confirms Red Bull AXE in official statement after a drama between…read more
Sergio Perez has officially confirmed that he is leaving Red Bull, with the announcement made through a statement on his X account. The Mexican driver, who has been with the team for four years, struggled with inconsistency throughout the 2024 season, which ultimately led to his departure. Despite showing early promise, Perez faced difficulties with poor qualifying results and low finishes, ending the year with only 13 points from his last nine races. His last podium finish came in April at the Chinese Grand Prix, and he hasn’t won a race since his victory at the 2023 Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
Perez’s disappointing performance in 2024, combined with Red Bull’s focus on maintaining their dominant position in both the drivers’ and constructors’ championships, led to increasing speculation about his future. While he was rumored to be replaced prior to the summer break, Red Bull chose to keep him for the remainder of the season. However, with only marginal improvements in his results and the rising expectations from within the team, the decision was made to part ways with the 34-year-old.
Perez’s underperformance also impacted Red Bull’s quest for the constructors’ championship. While Max Verstappen’s success helped the team secure the drivers’ title, Perez’s lack of consistency contributed to Red Bull finishing third in the constructors’ standings, a position below their usual dominance. As a result, Red Bull is now looking to replace him, with both Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda reportedly being considered for the seat alongside Verstappen.
In his farewell message, Perez expressed gratitude for the four years spent with Red Bull, highlighting his five race victories and two constructors’ championships as key milestones. “I’m incredibly grateful for the past four years with Red Bull Racing and for the opportunity to race with such an amazing team,” Perez wrote. He also acknowledged the support of the entire Red Bull team, from management to engineers, and thanked the fans, especially those in Mexico, for their unwavering loyalty.
Perez closed his statement by wishing the team the best for the future and expressed hope of reuniting with his fans soon, reminding them to “never give up.” The official announcement of his replacement has yet to be made, but the team’s plans for the 2025 season are already Underway.
