Tensions at Red Bull Racing have reached a new level with Sergio “Checo” Pérez and Christian Horner at the center of a controversy that could change the team’s course. In a year where internal stability seems to be shaky, the Mexican driver’s recent statements have exposed the cracks within the Austrian team.
The conflict that shakes Red Bull
Since joining Red Bull in 2021, Checo Pérez has played a crucial role for the team, securing valuable points and complementing Max Verstappen in the fight for championships. However, the preferential treatment Red Bull has shown the Dutch driver has been a recurring topic of debate. In recent months, this situation has escalated to a critical point, with Pérez hinting that he doesn’t receive the same support as his teammate.
In recent statements, the Mexican suggested a lack of fairness within the team, an accusation that hasn’t gone unnoticed. “Sometimes I feel like we’re not on equal footing, but I’m still focused on giving my best,” Pérez said in an interview. Although his words were measured, the message behind them is clear: something isn’t working well within the team.
Christian Horner under the microscope
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has been the focus of these accusations. His management of the team has been criticized for favoring Verstappen over Pérez. At several races, team strategies have appeared to lean toward the three-time world champion, leaving Checo in a difficult position.
One of the most tense moments came at the Brazilian Grand Prix, where Pérez was clearly disadvantaged by the team’s decisions. The lack of strategies that favored him and Horner’s apparent indifference to his complaints have raised alarm bells among the Mexican driver’s fans.
As if that weren’t enough, the lack of support for Pérez has also been reflected in the car’s development. Several sources close to the team have revealed that the RB20 has been largely designed to suit Verstappen’s driving style, leaving Checo at a disadvantage. This would explain his difficulties in maintaining consistent performance.
The impact on the future of Checo Pérez
Given this situation, Checo Pérez’s future at Red Bull is uncertain. Although his contract with the team runs until 2024, rumors of a possible departure have gained traction. Teams such as Aston Martin and Williams have been mentioned as possible destinations for the Mexican should he decide to leave the Austrian team.
The relationship between Horner and Pérez could be at breaking point, especially if the driver continues to feel marginalized within the team. For now, his main objective is to maintain his second place in the drivers’ championship, although the lack of internal support could work against him.
Reactions from the public and experts
Social media has exploded with reactions from fans demanding fair treatment for Pérez. “Red Bull should value Checo more, without him the team wouldn’t get so many points,” wrote one Twitter user. Others have called for Horner’s departure, accusing him of blatant favoritism toward Verstappen.
Former drivers and analysts have also weighed in on the issue. Former F1 champion Damon Hill mentioned in a recent broadcast that “it’s clear there’s tension within Red Bull and that Checo Pérez is trying to assert his position.”
What’s next for Red Bull and Checo?
The conflict between Checo Pérez and Christian Horner could mark a turning point for Red Bull. If the team fails to balance the situation, it could lose a key driver to its strategy. With the F1 World Championship drawing to a close, the upcoming races will be crucial in determining the Mexican’s future with the team.
For now, the only thing that’s clear is that Checo Pérez isn’t willing to stay silent. His courage in exposing the inconsistencies within Red Bull could lead to a change within the team or, in the worst case, open the door to a new challenge with another team.
The Red Bull novel is far from over and the drama is just beginning!
