Speaking to the media ahead of the 2024 Canadian Grand Prix, Sergio Perez made it clear—he plans to retire as a Red Bull Racing driver, but only when the time is right.
Sergio Perez has been a key player at Red Bull Racing, a team he deeply values. ‘My plan A, B, and C definitely was to stay at Red Bull,’ Perez explained, referencing his recent contract extension that will keep him with the team for another two seasons. ‘I really want to finish my career here, whenever that is. It’s a team that has given me so much.’
Perez’s seat at Red Bull has always been one of the most sought-after positions on the Formula 1 grid. With several drivers eyeing his spot—especially since his contract was due to end after the 2024 season—the announcement that Red Bull has re-signed him for 2025 and 2026 put an end to the speculation. ‘Once you get an agreement, it means that both parties are happy with what we got, and I’m happy to move forward. We’ve got great targets ahead of us,’ Perez said.
The Mexican driver emphasized the ‘intense’ nature of Red Bull’s atmosphere, noting it’s a unique challenge he’s faced since joining the team. ‘Red Bull is a team that really takes everything out of you,’ he noted. ‘It’s intense—on-track, off-track. It’s a challenge that you don’t have anywhere else. I’m really up for it and willing to give my 100 percent.’
Over the past three years, Red Bull Racing has been one of F1’s most dominant teams, with Perez’s teammate Max Verstappen effortlessly collecting records, victories, and titles. Perez has largely played a supporting role but has still achieved his best-ever World Drivers’ Championship results with Red Bull. Although this dynamic could create tension, Perez remains focused. ‘I intend to close the visor and focus on my job—do the best for myself and my career,’ he said. ‘At the end of the day, when my career is finished, it’s the only thing that will matter to me. I appreciate that everyone has their opinion, but I’m here to do the best for my career, and I’m happy with what I have achieved.’
Sergio Perez’s commitment to Red Bull Racing is unmistakable. With his contract extended through 2026, he looks forward to continuing to give his all for the team that means so much to him.
Source: Planetf1
