As the Formula 1 season edges toward its dramatic conclusion, Red Bull Racing faces a crucial crossroads regarding the future of Sergio Perez. With the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix marking the end of the 2024 season, the Red Bull shareholders are poised to hold a pivotal meeting to decide the Mexican driver’s fate. While Perez remains optimistic about his future in the sport, a series of underwhelming performances has cast significant doubt over his long-term role at the team.
Perez’s position has been under scrutiny since mid-season. Despite a promising start that saw him securing podiums, his subsequent struggles have been glaring. Over the last 14 races, including two sprint events, Perez has managed a mere 43 points, with his best finish being P6. This dismal streak starkly contrasts with teammate Max Verstappen, who clinched his third consecutive world championship and regularly outclassed the field despite Red Bull’s mid-season technical challenges.
Red Bull’s team advisor, Helmut Marko, has been unreserved in his criticism, highlighting the gap in performance between the two drivers. “If Sergio was anywhere near Hamilton, Russell, or Ferrari’s pace, we’d have the Constructor’s Championship locked up,” Marko remarked during the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend. Christian Horner, the team principal, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of having two drivers operating at peak performance to secure Red Bull’s dominance in both championships.
Adding to the complexity of the situation is the financial backing Perez brings to the team. His association with Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim has provided significant sponsorship funds, a factor that Red Bull must weigh against his inconsistent results. However, Red Bull has never been a team to prioritize financial gain over performance. The prospect of losing first place in the Constructor’s Championship for 2024 only intensifies the scrutiny on Perez’s seat.
Red Bull has a wealth of young talent waiting in the wings, with Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda being the most prominent contenders. Lawson, who impressed during his substitute appearances earlier in the season, has showcased his ability to deliver solid results despite limited experience. His top-10 finishes and steady performances have made him a strong candidate to partner Verstappen. On the other hand, Tsunoda’s recent P9 finish in Las Vegas and his relentless drive to outperform teammates further bolster his case for promotion.
Despite their achievements, both Lawson and Tsunoda face unique challenges. Lawson’s limited time in Formula 1 machinery may raise concerns about his readiness for a top-tier seat. Meanwhile, Tsunoda’s ties to Honda—a key partner transitioning to Aston Martin—could complicate Red Bull’s decision-making process. The team must navigate these dynamics carefully to ensure long-term stability.
For Perez, the stakes are higher than ever. While his belief in Red Bull’s ability to provide a more competitive car in 2025 remains steadfast, his future may hinge on the decisions made after Abu Dhabi. The team has no intention of waiting until Melbourne next season to address its driver lineup, as Horner confirmed.
As the decision looms, Red Bull must confront a fundamental question: Should they prioritize the sponsorship dollars Perez brings, or focus on promoting emerging talent that could restore their Constructor’s dominance? The shareholders’ upcoming meeting will likely determine whether Perez’s Formula 1 journey continues with Red Bull or if the team opts for a fresh start.
The spotlight now shines brightly on Abu Dhabi, where Perez will need a strong performance to bolster his case. Meanwhile, Lawson and Tsunoda remain poised, eager to seize an opportunity to solidify their positions within the Red Bull family. For fans, the intrigue surrounding Red Bull’s driver lineup ensures that the drama off the track will rival the on-track action, keeping the 2024 season finale as compelling as ever.
