“I hope he makes a leap to the real competition”: Sergio Perez invited to ditch F1 for FE by Alberto Longo

Formula E co-founder Alberto Longo has revealed his interest in Red Bull driver Sergio Perez.

2023 was a tumultuous season for Perez. The Mexican driver started the year on a high note, winning two of the first four races. He looked set to challenge Max Verstappen for his crown, however, the 34-year-old fell off quickly.

With a particularly disappointing Asian leg of the season, rumors grew thick and fast of Red Bull looking for the Mexican's replacement with Daniel Ricciardo being a prime candidate. However, it was confirmed at the start of the 2024 season that Perez will continue to partner the reigning three-time world champion Max Verstappen in the second Red Bull seat, at least for the upcoming season.

With speculations surrounding his long-term future and his contract expiring at the end of the 2024 season, an intriguing prospect has come to light for Sergio Perez. Formula E co-founder Alberto Longo has shown his interest in the Mexican driver, expressing his desire to bring Perez over to FE.

Speaking to AS Media, Longo said (via Fox Sports):

"I constantly talk to Checo and I hope he makes a leap to the real competition. Formula E is your home, it will have its doors open and it is welcome."

Sergio Perez on playing second fiddle to Max Verstappen

With Verstappen unquestionably being the most formidable driver on the grid, Perez carries the label of Red Bull's second driver. However, the Mexican remains determined to shed the "second fiddle" label.

Speaking to formula1.com, he revealed:

"That’s the main target for me because I’ve already finished second. My main interest is to do one better. I’m aware of the challenge that it is, we’ve got to really take this winter time to try to start the season on a high and be able to maintain that level of consistency throughout the season."

However, despite his aspirations to challenge Verstappen, Sergio Perez acknowledged the value of learning from the Dutch driver. He stated:

"Definitely there are things you learn from [Max]. Obviously I have the best reference out there because he was the one who was so competitive, so I think there’s no harm in looking at what he’s doing, how he’s doing it, try to learn and improve."

As Perez gears up for the 2024 season, it remains to be seen what the future holds for his F1 future.