Perez and Red Bull agree to part ways

The ticking clock on Sergios Perez’s F1 career has finally reached Pumpkin Hour, with the Mexican confirming he will not race for Red Bull Racing in 2025 after complicated exit negotiations.

Perez’s lack of performance in 2024 dropped RBR to third in the F1 World Constructors’ Championship, and he failed to finish in the top five in the last 18 Grand Prix of the season.

Perez and Red Bull agreed to terms to end his career earlier this week, backing out of a contract with him tied to the team until the end of 2026.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Perez said: “I’m incredibly grateful for the past four years with Red Bull Racing and for the opportunity to race with such an amazing team.

“Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience, and I will always cherish the success we achieved together. We broke records, reached remarkable milestones, and I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people along the way.

“A big thank you to every person in the team, from management, engineers, mechanics, catering, hospitality, kitchen, marketing and communications, as well as everyone at Milton Keynes. I wish you all the best for the future.

“It’s also been an honour to race alongside Max as a team-mate all these years and to share in our success. A special thank you to the fans around the world and especially to the Mexican fans for your unwavering support every day. We’ll meet again soon. And remember…never give up.”

Red Bull team boss Christian Horner added: “I would like to thank Checo for all he has done for Oracle Red Bull Racing over the past four seasons. From the moment he joined in 2021 he proved himself to be an extraordinary team player, helping us to two constructors’ titles and to our first 1-2 finish in the drivers’ championship.

“His five wins, all on street circuits, were also a spectacular mark of his determination to always push to the limit. While Checo will not race for the team next season, he will always be an extremely popular team member and a treasured part of our history. Thank you, Checo.”

Red Bull has not yet announced who will replace Perez, but his exit opens the door for it to promote one of its junior drivers. Kiwi Liam Lawson is believed to be the leading option. However, Auto Action editor Bruce Williams says on the latest RevLimiter podcast he thinks a surprise may be on the cards.