Sergio Perez has reiterated his confidence in Austin that he is “100 percent certain” he will continue as a Red Bull driver in 2025. This statement comes amid ongoing rumors, especially after Red Bull’s decision to let Liam Lawson compete directly with Yuki Tsunoda at their junior team for the final six races of the 2024 season.
Speculation suggests that Perez might announce his retirement at the upcoming Mexican Grand Prix, potentially creating an opening alongside Max Verstappen. Some sources claim that Perez, 34, is effectively “on probation” at each race, with Red Bull retaining the option to end his 2025 contract.
When questioned about the situation, Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko told *Osterreich* newspaper, “With Checo, inconsistency is the big problem. I don’t want to say anything more about that.”
Beyond concerns about Perez’s form, there are also rumors that Red Bull is worried about the possibility of losing Verstappen. Speculation suggests that Red Bull might be considering a move for Oscar Piastri, currently with McLaren.
“For now, we are solely focused on winning this world championship,” Marko stated. “Our performance next year will depend on that, as our car will not change fundamentally. Max has a contract with Red Bull, but as I’ve mentioned several times, there are exit clauses. Let’s see how it all develops. If the car and environment are not right for him, he may say ‘That’s it!’” the 81-year-old advisor added.
Meanwhile, Lawson and Tsunoda are aware that strong performances through the Abu Dhabi season finale could earn them a promotion to Red Bull Racing. Tsunoda remarked, “It’s been floating around throughout the year, but so far, there’s no point in talking about it.” Lawson added, “Yuki’s done a very good job the last couple of years, and he’s the benchmark for them to compare me against. As for next year or the future, I have no idea. But that’s the target that’s been set.”
Despite the speculation, Perez has firmly denied any plans to retire, emphasizing his commitment to the team. “My home race is coming up and I want to make a clear statement,” he said in Austin. “I am 100 percent sure I will be with this team next year. I have a contract signed, and everything else is not my problem. Right now, all my thoughts are on sorting out the current problems with the car.”
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