Sergio Pérez isn’t going anywhere; he will remain Max Verstappen’s teammate for the next two seasons.
The Mexican, whose contract was due to end at the end of the current season, reached an agreement with Red Bull on Tuesday morning, two days before the Canadian Grand Prix. This contract extension takes him through at least the 2026 season.
This announcement will put an end to some speculation in the paddock. If some doubted the return of the 34-year-old driver to the manufacturer’s champion for the 2023 season, the leaders of Red Bull have always said they intend to keep him in their ranks.
“I am delighted to stay here and continue our adventure, to contribute to the great history of this team for two more years,” the driver said via press release. Being part of this team is a huge challenge, which I love. We have a good challenge this year and I have full confidence in the whole team that the future is bright. I’m excited to be part of it. »
Pérez finished the 2023 season second in the drivers’ standings behind Verstappen, securing the constructors’ title for Red Bull. Since joining the Milton Keynes team, he has won five grands prix and secured three pole positions.
It’s been a little more difficult for the Mexican recently, as he ranks fifth among the drivers after eight races. He notably finished in 8th place at Imola, and was unable to finish the race in Monaco due to a major collision with the Haas of Kevin Magnussen and Nico Hülkenberg.
According to what Formula 1 correspondent Lawrence Barretto reports, the team has evaluated the option of coming to an agreement with Carlos Sainz Jr., who is still looking for a contract for next season, but “conversations never accelerated to the point where it became serious. »
“Continuity and stability are important for the team,” said team leader Christian Horner, also in a press release. “Checo and Max are enjoying success and a robust partnership. They secured our first championship double last year. »
“The last few races have been difficult, there is convergence on the grid, but we have confidence in Checo and we look forward to seeing him back in excellent form. »
Unlike last year, Red Bull faces competition in the Constructors’ Championship; Ferrari and McLaren have both won races this season and are not that far behind in the standings.
“Last year was a unicorn season and we will have to work hard to retain our titles, but we are reassured by our squad and the team as a whole, which is imperative in what promises to be a championship which will be tight this year,” Horner added.
