Despite speculation suggesting otherwise, Red Bull announced that Sergio Perez would continue with the team after the Belgian GP. This decision was a surprise, especially given that Helmut Marko said Perez “completely collapsed” under the pressure in Spa. However, in yet another U-turn, Red Bull have put their faith in Perez for the remainder of 2024. Helmut Marko explains why.
Sergio Perez under mounting pressure
There are very few highlights to pick out in Sergio Perez’s 2024 campaign so far.
Aside from a string of strong results to start the season, the 34-year-old’s results have been objectively underwhelming.
Since Mercedes and McLaren have asserted themselves contenders, Perez frequently finds himself as the slowest of the front-runners.
This is proving costly in the Constructors Championship, with McLaren now within touching distance of Red Bull.
Because of this, it seems likely that either Daniel Ricciardo or Yuki Tsunoda would replace the Mexican driver.
However, Christian Horner’s team opted against a change which – in the eyes of many – was necessary.
Helmut Marko defends Red Bull’s choice
Writing in his Speedweek column, Marko explained Red Bull’s decision:
“There are now races on tracks where he was good last year, and we are counting on stability.
“He has also shown good performances from time to time, and at the last race weekend in Spa, he was very fast on Saturday, finishing third…
“Perez doesn’t need to get faster, just more consistent. And given the alternatives, he is still our best solution.
“Reports that his continued commitment is due to Liberty Media’s desire for him to race in Mexico are not true.
“They certainly want him to race in his home race, but our choice of driver is not based on Liberty Media’s intentions.”
It won’t take long before Red Bull’s choice to keep Sergio Perez is under fresh scrutiny.
With such an intense battle at the front this year, there is nowhere to hide. Both Perez and the main decision-makers at Milton Keynes are entering a crucial period of the year.
McLaren and Mercedes are on the rise, so Red Bull cannot afford to have one driver fighting at the lower end of the points.
For now, though, the reigning Champions seem satisfied with their line-up.
