Red Bull might’ve extended Sergio Perez’s contract to keep Max Verstappen happy

Sergio Perez was arguably the safest bet for Red Bull to not displease Max Verstappen.

Red Bull might’ve extended Sergio Perez’s contract to keep Max Verstappen happy

Sergio Perez and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)

Sergio Perez‘s future at Red Bull was one of the biggest talking points in the F1 paddock. Milton Keynes has finally decided to give the Mexican driver a two-year extension. This comes after the Austrian team was rumored to be considering multiple options including Carlos Sainz. However, Perez might’ve been the safest option for Max Verstappen.

Sergio Perez has raced for the Austrian team since 2021. Throughout his tenure at Red Bull, Perez has played the perfect role of a second driver to Max Verstappen. Despite the Mexican driver’s rollercoaster results, Verstappen seemed to be satisfied to be partnered by the 34-year-old over the years.

Christian Horner mentioned that Red Bull wanted to keep stability with Perez for the coming two seasons. This certainly might’ve played a role considering Adrian Newey’s exit. However, some argue that Red Bull might’ve extended Sergio Perez’s contract to keep Max Verstappen happy.

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Sergio Perez not a real threat to Max Verstappen

Max Verstappen has won three consecutive world titles since Sergio Perez joined Milton Keynes. The 34-year-old was never a real contender for the world championship against the Dutchman. It seems that Perez has finally admitted to himself that he cannot realistically challenge Verstappen. On the other hand, the three-time world champion is comfortable with such a teammate.

Sergio Perez and Max Verstappen
Sergio Perez and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)

If Red Bull had opted to go for someone like Carlos Sainz, Max Verstappen would’ve had a threat from within the team. Sainz is a determined driver who remains hungry to win in F1. Moreover, the history of the two in Toro Rosso showed that tensions would surely escalate when they’re in the same team.

Milton Keynes has built itself around Verstappen ever since Daniel Ricciardo left the team at the end of 2018. As such, Christian Horner and his squad could not afford to have a driver who might challenge the Dutchman for race victories. Although, this decision might cost Red Bull if Perez fails to match Ferrari and McLaren as the pecking order converges.

Certainly, giving Sergio Perez a two-year contract might be a gamble for Red Bull. This decision might keep Max Verstappen happy. However, if Perez fails to deliver consistent results, Milton Keynes might find it difficult to retain the constructors’ titles against the ever-increasing competition on the grid.

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