“What a fighter he’s been”: NASCAR broadcaster pays tribute to Sergio Perez amid Red Bull departure announcement

Esteemed NASCAR broadcaster Leigh Diffey recently expressed his feelings on Formula One driver Sergio Perez mutually parting ways with his team Red Bull Racing. Despite having signed a contract extension until 2026, Perez will now exit Formula One after an esteemed career in the sport.

The 34-year-old Mexican driver Sergio Perez drove his first Formula One race in 2011 at the Australian Grand Prix, where he piloted the #17 entry for Sauber-Ferrari. Throughout his career, Perez has secured six Grand Prix wins, 39 podium finishes, and three pole positions in 281 race starts.

The previous few years had not been very successful for the former Red Bull Racing driver, which can possibly be the reason for his departure from the team.

However, to commemorate his career in the sport NASCAR broadcaster Leigh Diffey, who has assumed a similar role for NBC Sports on Formula One, recently wrote a heartfelt note for Sergio Perez for being 'a fighter' throughout his career.

"While this yr wasn’t ideal for @SChecoPerez let’s not forget what a fighter he’s been in his 14yrs of @f1. 12 yrs in the top 10 in pts & 4 of those in the top 4 (incl. r/u to Max). Most successful Mexican F1 driver ever, almost 300 starts & 6wins. Most dream of a career like his!" Leigh Diffey wrote on X

Although the news is recent, speculation about Perez's future in Formula One has been around for a substantial amount of time. Meanwhile, 22-year-old Liam Lawson, who drives the Visa Cash App RB will replace the Mexican in the RBR car, teaming up with four-time Formula One Champion Max Verstappen.

Meanwhile, a recent update regarding the 23XI/FRM antitrust lawsuit has shaken the NASCAR community. District Judge Kenneth D. Bell has approved 23XI and FRM's preliminary injunction to run as chartered teams in the 2025 season.

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“This is massive”: NASCAR veteran reacts as Michael Jordan owned 23XI Racing and FRM lawsuit register big win

NASCAR and 23XI/FRM have long been in disagreement regarding the heavily disputed charter agreement starting from the 2025 season. A joint statement by 23XI and FRM stated that NASCAR has a monopolistic approach toward the sport, and does not have a lot of financial legroom for charter holding teams.

However, a recent update by the North Carolina District Court has caught the sport off guard. District Judge Kenneth D. Bell recently allowed 23XI and FRM to run as charted teams. Moreover, both teams were looking to expand their operation by acquiring SHR's remaining charters, which initially the organization did not approve of. However, the NC District Court's approval of their preliminary injunction will allow them to run a third entry next season.

Recently, veteran Kenny Wallace has reacted to this major update on X.

“This is massive and a big win for these two teams😳 this is the biggest legal / judgmental win FOR TEAMS in NASCAR history.” he wrote on X

While 23XI and FRM were supposed to run as open entries, they will now have a confirmed seat throughout the 2025 Cup Series season.