Sergio Perez and Red Bull announce separation with immediate effect

Sergio Perez has confirmed his departure from Red Bull Racing at the end of the 2024 season, marking the conclusion of a four-year stint with the Milton Keynes-based team. The Mexican driver, a six-time Grand Prix winner, leaves after contributing significantly to the team’s success during his tenure.

Speculation about Perez’s future had been a constant storyline throughout the 2024 season, with rumors of his exit intensifying after the summer break despite repeated denials from both Perez and the team. In Abu Dhabi, Red Bull CEO Christian Horner hinted at discussions to be held over the winter, adding fuel to the uncertainty. The Mexican driver had signed a contract with Red Bull earlier this year, renewing his deal before the summer break and extending his stay with the team until the end of 2025.

Reflecting on his time at Red Bull, Perez expressed gratitude for the records and milestones achieved together. He also shared his appreciation for the opportunity to race alongside Max Verstappen, highlighting the memorable moments they shared as teammates.

Announcing his departure in a team statement, Sergio Perez said:

“I’m incredibly grateful for the past four years with Oracle Red Bull Racing and for the opportunity to race with such an amazing Team. Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience and I’ll always cherish the successes we achieved together. We broke records, reached remarkable milestones, and I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people along the way. A big thank you to every person in the Team from the management, engineers and mechanics, catering, hospitality, kitchen, marketing and communications, as well as everyone at Milton Keynes, I wish you all the best for the future.

“It has also been an honour to race alongside Max as a teammate all these years and to share in our success. A special thank you to the fans around the world, and especially to the Mexican fans for your unwavering support every day. We’ll meet again soon. And remember… Never give up.”

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Christian Horner is grateful to Sergio Perez for his contribution to Red Bull’s success

Christian Horner expressed his gratitude to Sergio Perez in a team statement, acknowledging the Mexican driver's significant contributions during his four seasons with Red Bull. Perez joined the team in 2021, with Red Bull securing four Drivers’ Championships and two Constructors’ titles, a remarkable feat for the Milton Keynes-based outfit.

Horner praised the six-time Grand Prix winner for his achievements and highlighted his integral role in the team’s accomplishments over the years. He remarked that Perez will always be cherished as a valued member of the Red Bull family.

Speaking in a team statement announcing the departure of Sergio Perez, Horner said:

“I would like to thank Checo for all he has done for Oracle Red Bull Racing over the past four seasons. From the moment he joined in 2021 he proved himself to be an extraordinary eam player, helping us to two Constructors’ titles and to our first 1-2 finish in the Drivers’ championship. His five wins, all on street circuits, were also a spectacular mark of his determination to always push the limit. While Checo will not race for the team next season, he will always be an extremely popular team member and a treasured part of our history. Thank you, Checo."

Sergio Perez finished in the top three of the championship during Red Bull’s dominant campaigns in 2022 and 2023. In 2022, he came third, while in 2023, he finished second behind Max Verstappen. However, his 2024 season was a stark contrast, as he finished eighth in the championship with only 152 points, compared to his teammate’s title-winning total of 437 points. Perez’s lackluster form in 2024 ultimately sealed his future with the team.

In Abu Dhabi, Horner revealed to media, including Sportskeeda, that the leading contenders to potentially replace Sergio Pérez were Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson. While Tsunoda completed a test in the RB20 after the season finale, speculation is mounting that Lawson is the frontrunner for the seat at Red Bull. The team’s official statement hinted that the announcement regarding Pérez’s replacement will be made in due course.