Source – SBNation.com
Red Bull ought to “take a chance” and let Sergio Perez go since Max Verstappen and half of the other drivers on the F1 2024 grid should “perform better” together.
In the swirling world of Formula 1, few stories have sparked as much intrigue and speculation as the recent debate over Sergio Perez’s place at Red Bull Racing. As the F1 2024 season hits its stride, the Mexican driver finds himself under intense scrutiny, with former F1 driver Marc Surer leading the charge of critics who believe Perez’s performance is falling short.
Surer, known for his candid assessments, has painted a stark picture of Perez’s current predicament. According to Surer, the 34-year-old has “lost his self-confidence” while struggling to master the Red Bull RB20. This struggle has been evident in Perez’s recent form, which has seen him drop from an impressive start to the season—four podiums in the first five races—to a dismal run where he hasn’t finished higher than seventh since the Miami Grand Prix in early May. His struggles have not only affected his standings but also raised questions about his future with the team.
Despite securing a new two-year contract with Red Bull just this past June, Perez’s spot on the team appeared precarious during the summer break. The team has been reportedly weighing their options, with a performance clause in his contract offering them the flexibility to make a change if needed. Perez’s substantial deficit of 146 points behind teammate Max Verstappen after the Belgian Grand Prix has only amplified the debate.
Red Bull’s decision to keep Perez for the remainder of the season was announced by team principal Christian Horner, who expressed optimism that Perez could turn his fortunes around at circuits where he has previously excelled. This includes tracks where he’s enjoyed notable success, such as Baku and Singapore. However, the continued underperformance raises the question of whether Red Bull will reconsider their options as the season progresses.
Surer’s critique underscores the belief that Red Bull might have been better off looking elsewhere. The former driver suggested that “half the field” in F1 would likely outperform Perez given the chance. He went so far as to imply that he would have opted for a change during the August break if he were in a decision-making position. According to Surer, Perez’s inability to adapt to the RB20, which has exhibited both understeering and oversteering characteristics, contrasts sharply with Verstappen’s adept handling of the car’s unpredictable behavior. This technical struggle, combined with a possible loss of self-confidence, has led Surer to question Perez’s suitability for the role.
Rumors have even surfaced suggesting that F1’s governing body, Liberty Media, might have played a role in persuading Red Bull to retain Perez, particularly with his home race in Mexico approaching in late October. Surer believes that if Red Bull decides to part ways with Perez, it would be more beneficial for him to be let go at the end of the season rather than mid-year, as it would allow him a better chance of securing another seat for the 2025 season.
In light of these developments, speculation about Perez’s future continues to swirl. Reports from Germany have hinted that Perez could emerge as a candidate for the Audi/Sauber team for F1 2025, should Red Bull decide to move on. Perez’s history with Sauber, where he began his F1 career and earned three podiums, adds an interesting layer to these rumors. Meanwhile, current Sauber driver Valtteri Bottas has hinted at his likely continuation with the team alongside new signing Nico Hulkenberg, potentially complicating Perez’s prospects with the Swiss-based outfit.
As the F1 2024 season progresses, all eyes will be on Perez and his ability to regain his form. The next few races could prove pivotal not just for his current standing but also for determining his future in the sport. The drama surrounding Perez’s place at Red Bull is far from over, and the coming months will likely offer more twists and turns in this unfolding saga.
