Dutch racer Tom Coronel asserts that Sergio Perez’s tenure at Red Bull should end as Perez fights for a new contract.
Dutch racer Tom Coronel believes Sergio Perez’s time at Red Bull should come to an end, despite ongoing contract negotiations. Perez’s early-season performance, marked by three P2 finishes in the first four races, initially silenced critics and suggested an extension of his Red Bull tenure was likely. However, with McLaren and Ferrari emerging as formidable challengers, Perez’s form has dipped.
Perez, who hasn’t secured a podium since the Chinese Grand Prix, now sits fifth in the Drivers’ Championship. McLaren’s Lando Norris triumphed in Miami, and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc clinched victory at Monaco, signaling a potential title battle for Red Bull.
Despite reports of an impending new deal for Perez, Coronel remains unconvinced. he suggested Red Bull team principal Christian Horner’s support for Perez is a significant factor in his retention. “Horner wants to keep Perez, that’s my feeling,” Coronel said. “But it’s time to thank Perez for his services and move on.”
Ahead of the Monaco GP, Perez confirmed that contract talks were in progress. “I know that the negotiations are underway,” he stated. “At some point, we will know and you will be the first one to know!”
Perez’s Monaco GP ended in disaster with a first-lap crash involving Haas’ Kevin Magnussen. Coronel also criticized the retention of drivers like Magnussen, advocating for fresh talent in Formula 1. Ferrari junior Oliver Bearman is rumored to join Haas for the 2025 season, and Andrea Kimi Antonelli is linked to a Mercedes seat, potentially replacing Lewis Hamilton, who is expected to move to Ferrari.
Coronel emphasized the importance of giving new drivers a chance. “New recruits are important. Guys like Magnussen, who keep getting re-signed, have had their chance,” he said.
With Red Bull’s title fight intensifying and contract talks ongoing, Perez’s future remains uncertain.
