Sergio Perez will soon learn his fate at Red Bull Racing, to be determined during a shareholder meeting following the season’s final race at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The Mexican driver’s future hangs in the balance after a challenging season that has seen him fall significantly behind his teammate, Max Verstappen, the newly-crowned 2024 F1 drivers’ champion.
Perez’s Struggles This Season
Perez’s season has been marked by inconsistent performances, leaving him 251 points adrift of Verstappen. His struggle to secure points has also impacted Red Bull’s ability to defend their constructors’ title. Despite these setbacks, the team has publicly expressed its support for Perez, though they’ve made it clear that improvements are needed.
Opportunities to Impress
With only two races left this season – the Qatar Grand Prix and the Abu Dhabi GP – Perez has a limited window to prove he deserves a spot on the 2025 grid. Red Bull and their sister team have several options to consider for future line-ups, increasing the pressure on Perez to deliver strong performances in the upcoming races.
The intervals between his performances have seen speculation about potential replacements, with names such as Alex Albon and academy drivers thrown into the mix. Nonetheless, Perez maintains a fighting spirit and aims to use the remaining races to solidify his position within the team.
Team Dynamics and Expectations
While Perez has maintained a respectful relationship with Verstappen, the team dynamics have not always worked in his favour. Red Bull expects consistency and excellence, hallmarks of Verstappen’s racing life. For Perez, the next two races are pivotal. A standout performance could be a decisive factor in convincing Red Bull’s shareholders of his worthiness to stay.
Looking Ahead
The conclusion of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will not only draw curtains on the 2024 season but will also potentially mark a significant turning point in Perez’s career. With a shareholder meeting awaiting him, Perez’s outcome is as suspenseful as a race itself.
As the Mexican driver gears up for what could be two of the most critical races of his career, fans and analysts will be keenly observing whether he can rise to the occasion, influencing Red Bull’s decision for their 2025 driver line-up.
