Arriving at the end of 2024 after four seasons with Red Bull, Sergio Pérez spoke with disconcerting clarity about his journey within the Austrian team. At the time of his dismissal, he sent a poignant message to Christian Horner, the team principal, revealing a rare depth of analysis in the world of Formula 1.
A departure without bitterness
Sergio Pérez, whose time at Red Bull was marked by ups and downs, never showed any signs of bitterness. On the contrary, he acknowledged the situation with exemplary pragmatism. When he learned that he would not be retained for the 2025 season, he had these words for Christian Horner: “Thank you very much for everything, and I am really sorry for whoever comes after me, as it will be very difficult for him.” A comment that speaks volumes about the inherent pressure of a seat at Red Bull.
A complex legacy
Pérez’s successor, Liam Lawson, did not last long, being replaced after just two Grands Prix. Meanwhile, Yuki Tsunoda failed to establish himself, and it is Isack Hadjar who will take his place in 2026. These changes illustrate how much a seat at Red Bull can resemble a true kitchen hood: the dishes burn quickly, and only the most resilient manage to stay in the game.
A well-defined role
Arriving in 2021, Sergio Pérez was able to take on the role of lieutenant to Max Verstappen, contributing to the Dutchman’s first world title. With five victories to his name and 29 podiums in four seasons, he demonstrated great consistency. In his statements, he explains that he quickly understood his place: “I knew from day one that I had to be smart. I knew what role I had, I knew that this project had been developed for Verstappen.”
The cursed seat?
It is no coincidence that Pérez mentions the complexity of the car. “What happened at Red Bull, in the end, I knew it was the best thing that could happen to me. It was extremely demanding. Every driver who comes in has to face similar challenges, as it is a very complex car to drive, with which you must constantly adapt to Verstappen’s style.” A reality that few drivers can endure, yet Pérez managed to navigate these troubled waters with brilliance.
A return to roots with Cadillac
Rejuvenated by a year away from F1, the Mexican driver plans his return in 2026 with Cadillac, a newcomer on the grid. He holds no grudges about his experience at Red Bull, stating that he was aware of the rules of the game from the start. Regarding Max Verstappen, he can only feel respect: “I think he is going to become the best driver in F1 history; the Red Bull project is built for him.”
Final reflections
Pérez concludes with striking insight: “I had to be smart and think long-term. Look at how things have turned out: drivers do not last long alongside Verstappen, and today, no one remembers that they have a second driver.” A statement that perfectly summarizes the pressure of competition at Red Bull, where the spotlight shines brightly on a single star.
