Helmut Marko reveals Red Bull’s ‘first option’ to partner Max Verstappen in 2025

Red Bull Racing signed Sergio Perez in 2021 to partner Max Verstappen. The Mexican driver has played the role of a second driver so far. However, Checo’s disappointing campaign last year opened up the possibility of Milton Keynes replacing the 34-year-old. Now, Red Bull Motorsport Consultant Dr. Helmut Marko has revealed the team’s plans.

The 80-year-old claimed that Red Bull was conducting discussions to decide its second driver for 2025. Although, Helmut Marko affirmed that the team’s first option for next season was to renew Sergio Perez‘s contract. Recently, it was rumored that Perez countered the Austrian team’s offer for a one-year extension.

The talks are ongoing and Checo [Sergio Perez] is still our first option. 

Helmut Marko told Kleine Zeitung

Marko reckoned that Milton Keynes wanted to confirm its line-up before the summer break. However, the Red Bull advisor claimed that the Austrian team was in no pressure to do so. With multiple drivers being interested in racing for the reigning world champions.

We want to clarify that before the summer break, even though we put absolutely no pressure on ourselves otherwise.

Helmut Marko stated

Helmut Marko claims Yuki Tsunoda’s Red Bull promotion also on the cards

Red Bull’s second seat has several contenders from the Austrian family itself. Daniel Ricciardo returned to F1 last season with the aim of partnering Max Verstappen at Milton Keynes. However, Ricciardo’s RB teammate Yuki Tsunoda was believed to have been sidelined completely.

Now, Helmut Marko has dismissed such speculation. The 80-year-old asserted that Tsunoda was part of driver negotiations. Moreover, Marko claimed that Yuki Tsunoda could commit to several years with various provisions in the contract.

Of course he [Yuki Tsunoda] is also taking part in talks. Generally we have several options in his contract, so he can commit for several years.

Helmut Marko affirmed

Certainly, Sergio Perez remains the best option for Red Bull. It could be difficult for Yuki Tsunoda to play second fiddle to Max Verstappen. As the Japanese driver would try to battle for the world championship with a race-winning car. Nevertheless, Tsunoda could win a promotion if Milton Keynes decides to back him for the long term.

In case you missed it:

• WATCH: Charles Leclerc admits to ‘TARGETING’ a win at his home race the Monaco GP
• Helmut Marko claims Fernando Alonso didn’t think Red Bull could ‘compete for world championships’ in F1

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