In a season marked by fluctuating performances, Helmut Marko has declared Sergio Perez remains the optimal choice to race alongside Max Verstappen for the remainder of the Formula 1 season.
Perez’s recent struggles have allowed McLaren to close the gap to Red Bull in the constructors’ standings. Amidst speculation of a driver change, Red Bull’s top brass, including team boss Christian Horner and advisor Marko, deliberated on their alternatives before deciding to stick with Perez. Despite a two-year contract extension, the team’s options included Daniel Ricciardo, Yuki Tsunoda, and Liam Lawson. However, Marko stated, ‘Sergio Perez will also be in the Red Bull Racing car after the summer break because we now have races on the tracks where he was good last year and we are banking on stability.’
Marko emphasized Perez’s capability, citing his strong performance in Belgian Grand Prix qualifying. He noted, ‘Perez doesn’t have to become faster, but more consistent and, given the alternatives, he is still our best solution.’
There were speculations that Liberty Media pressured Red Bull to retain Perez until the Mexico Grand Prix, but Marko refuted this, saying, ‘Reports that his continued involvement is due to Liberty Media’s wish for him to drive in Mexico are not true. They certainly want him to contest his home race, but our choice of driver is not based on Liberty’s intentions.’
The future of reserve driver Liam Lawson also remains uncertain. Marko has ruled out loaning him to rival teams, stating, ‘We will announce what will happen with Liam Lawson in September.’ Lawson’s participation in gaining experience in Imola was noted as a pre-planned move. Marko also highlighted the potential of their Formula 2 driver Isack Hadjar, who recently secured his fourth victory. ‘We’ll see how everything develops, but he will certainly take on a role of some kind,’ Marko mentioned.
This decision comes at a time when Red Bull is strategically placing its bets on stability and consistency, hoping Perez will rediscover his rhythm in the upcoming races.
Red Bull’s decision to continue with Sergio Perez underscores their strategic focus on stability amidst a competitive season. As the team eyes the next rounds, all attention will be on Perez to deliver consistent performances and narrow the gap from their rivals.
