Dutch driver signals Sergio Perez’s extension a choice ‘not from Red Bull’ amidst rumors of pressure from Liberty Media
Sergio Perez has been having a horrendous time behind the wheel of Red Bull's RB20.
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Liberty Media and Sergio perez (Via: Imago)
Sergio Perez‘s performance slump has continued since the beginning of the 2024 season. The Mexican driver is finding it difficult to follow up with the dominant Max Verstappen in terms of performance. As a result, the 34-year-old was rumored to be ousted from the team amidst failing performances. However, multiple rumors suggested that Liberty Media intervened in the matter and prevented Red Bull from firing Perez.
The future of Sergio Perez was going to be assessed over the summer break after the Belgian GP. Hence, it was finally decided that the drivers’ lineup in the Red Bull family would stay the same throughout the season. Upon this, multiple people believed that Liberty Media was the one who prevented the Mexican driver’s removal from Milton Keynes. The Dutch driver Giedo Van Der Garde has put forth his opinions on the matter.
Van Der Garde reckoned that the decision to retain Perez in their 2024 lineup was not directly Red Bull’s decision. Additionally, the Dutchman believed that a team usually doesn’t give so many chances to a driver. This clearly proved that the team boss Christian Horner had more say over these matters than Helmut Marko.
I couldn't believe it, a choice not from Red Bull, usually you never give so many opportunities to a driver who doesn't perform. After the first four races Perez collapsed. Evidently Christian Horner has more say than Helmut Marko.Giedo Van Der Garde said on the DRS: De Race Show podcast
Giedo Van Der Garde’s ‘logical’ replacement for Sergio Perez at Red Bull
Upon the matter of Sergio Perez’s replacement, there was a ‘matchup’ scheduled between Daniel Ricciardo and Liam Lawson. However, Van Der Garde believed that Lawson would’ve been a ‘risky choice’ due to his chances against Max Verstappen. Hence, Ricciardo was the logical choice especially due to his matchup with Verstappen in the past.
Perhaps Liam Lawson would have been too risky a choice because Lawson could risk seeing his career substantially ended compared directly with Verstappen. Daniel Ricciardo seemed like a logical choice since the Australian has already shared the box with Verstappen and has great experience.Giedo Van Der Garde added.
Regardless, Red Bull’s final decision has been declared as Perez will need to improve in performance. The team has taken a decision only until the end of the 2024 season. Hence, uncertainty still looms over Perez’s future as a Red Bull driver in the pinnacle of motorsport from the coming season onwards.
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Aditya Pandya
(1440 Articles Published)