Sergio Perez is fighting to secure a contract extension with Red Bull, but his impact in the driver market goes beyond the Austrian team. Perez is performing at a high level to start 2024, delivering a series of podium finishes in the RB20. These results are crucial in his efforts to continue with the reigning Champions. However, in the event that Red Bull looks to someone like Carlos Sainz for 2025, Perez will have no shortage of paths forward.
Spending the last three seasons in the same machinery against Max Verstappen is no easy task. Verstappen is currently at the peak of his powers, optimising every aspect of the RB20. With such a strong reference, it is easy to overlook the proven calibre of Sergio Perez.
PEREZ HAS A PROVEN TRACK RECORD
Aside from his numerous race victories and podiums at Red Bull, Perez also has an excellent record in the midfield. His years with Sauber and Force India were exemplary, often fighting for the unofficial title of ‘best of the rest’. This knowledge is important to keep in mind when discussing his prospects in the market.
As it stands, the Mexican driver is firmly in the mix to keep his Red Bull seat. That said, Red Bull have several alternatives they could turn to. Carlos Sainz is one of them, with Christian Horner closely monitoring the 29-year-old’s availability.
Sainz is not just seen as a potential teammate for Verstappen, but also as a contingency in the event the Dutchman leaves.
AUDI MONITOR SERGIO PEREZ AVAILABILITY
In this scenario, Sergio Perez will have to look beyond the Milton Keynes team. However, in this respect, he will have no shortage of options. Across the midfield, teams are waiting to see if the 6-time winner becomes available.
Audi is understood to be among these. At this stage, Audi has been mentioned with a multitude of drivers. Audi is seen as relatively eager to finalise its driver line-up. Indeed, half of its 2025 line-up is already decided.
However, contrary to some reports, they have not pulled the trigger on their second choice for 2025. Instead, they are waiting to see how the market evolves. In a scenario where Sainz joins Red Bull, Sergio Perez would become a serious target for the German manufacturer.
His experience, speed and commercial power are all critical factors. Whilst Perez’s future at Red Bull is often considered, F1 news articles rarely consider his options beyond the reigning Champions. Should Christian Horner push for Sainz to partner with Verstappen, the Mexican driver would become a huge name in the market.