Ralf Schumacher claims Red Bull has “great intention to sign” Fernando Alonso as Max Verstappen’s replacement 

Sergio Perez's current Red Bull contract is set to expire at the end of this year.

Ralf Schumacher claims Red Bull has “great intention to sign” Fernando Alonso as Max Verstappen’s replacement 

Fernando Alonso, Max Verstappen and Ralf Schumacher (Via: Imago)

Red Bull is currently facing numerous issues, including power struggles and political controversies, which have brought unnecessary attention to the team. Despite the ongoing unrest within the team, it remains a potent threat. The team is working together to bring out the best results. 

The Milton-Keynes-based team currently has a long-term contract with the reigning world champion, Max Verstappen. But its second driver, Sergio Perez, has been given till summer break to prove his place in the team.

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Perez’s contract runs out at the end of this season and with Verstappen being involved in potential departure rumors, Ralf Schumacher believes that Fernando Alonso has managed to catch the eye of Christian Horner.

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It seems that he has great intentions to sign Alonso for next year to have another strong driver if Max Verstappen leaves the team
Ralf Schumacher via Sky Sports

A seat at Red Bull is a great potential opportunity for the Spaniard as Red Bull is the dominant team in the sport right now. With Max Verstappen’s possible move to Mercedes, the team is already looking into alternatives to replace him if he were to part ways, which would mean an entirely new driver lineup for Red Bull. However, as stated by Verstappen himself, he is content at Red Bull and wishes to stay with the team long-term.

Ferrari is exerting significant pressure on Red Bull

The Australian GP was the first race, where everything didn’t go according to Red Bull’s plan. Verstappen was knocked out of the race due to an engine issue and Sergio Perez faced issues with his RB20 as well. On the other hand, Ferrari was on fire, the Maranello-based team pulled off a one-two and is now only four points behind Red Bull in the Constructor’s Championship.

Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz Australia 2024
Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz (Via IMAGO)

Perez gave his take on Ferrari’s Australian GP performance.

Yeah, I was a bit surprised to see they were so strong. They were able to maximise their package and it worked well for them. I think when we go to a track like this, already last year in Las Vegas, for example, Ferrari was very strong.
Sergio Perez said in an interview with F1

According to Perez, track characteristics will be a major factor in determining how well the RB20 performs at the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix. Red Bull needs to get control over their situation as Ferrari is catching up fast. The Suzuka event will indicate whether Red Bull’s Australian GP outing was a one-off or Ferrari really is on the Austrian team’s heels.

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