Does Sergio Perez have a backup plan if he is sacked from Red Bull?

Sergio Perez might need to look elsewhere if Red Bull decides to pull the plug on his tenure at Milton Keynes.

Does Sergio Perez have a backup plan if he is sacked from Red Bull?

Sergio Perez and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)

Sergio Perez has raced for Red Bull Racing since 2021. During this period, the Mexican driver has shown glimpses of performance while struggling to truly match Max Verstappen. Now, it seems that Checo might be at risk of being sacked by the Austrian team mid-way through 2024.

Perez was surprisingly handed a two-year extension by Red Bull this year. Many were skeptical over the team’s decision as the 34-year-old was not living up to expectations. Christian Horner admitted that Milton Keynes hoped this would motivate Sergio Perez. However, that has not been the case when it comes to on-track performances.

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It is rumored that Checo’s contract has an exit clause if he is short of over 100 points to Verstappen or five places behind the Dutchman in the standings. As such, one would wonder if Sergio Perez has a backup plan if he is sacked from Red Bull?

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Which team can Sergio Perez join outside of Red Bull for 2025?

Formula 1 has had a rather open driver market for next season courtesy of Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari move. However, several drivers are in contention now for just a handful of seats at teams like Williams and Alpine. Mercedes is yet to make a decision on Hamilton’s replacement. Although, it is believed that Kimi Antonelli will be racing for the Silver Arrows next season.

Sergio Perez
Sergio Perez (via IMAGO)

Red Bull could simply demote Perez to RB. However, the Austrian team needs to find a seat for Liam Lawson, as such, Checo might be forced out altogether. Audi could be a promising option for the Mexican driver as the Sauber squad has high ambitions for the future. However, the Swiss team has failed to make gains this season.

Alpine seem to be focused on getting Carlos Sainz for next season. Even if the Spaniard goes elsewhere, the French team might decide to promote its reserve driver Jack Doohan before bringing Sergio Perez. Moreover, Checo even faces drivers like Valtteri Bottas and Esteban Ocon in contention for a seat in 2025, further lowering his chances. Nevertheless, it might be not be surprising if Perez can land a seat at Williams or Haas if need be.

Certainly, if Sergio Perez becomes available in the driver market, teams would be interested in the Mexican driver. Perez’s financial backing could be the most important aspect in this regard which could do wonders for a team like Haas or Williams. However, fans would be hoping to see the 34-year-old continue at Red Bull for the foreseeable future.

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