Sergio Perez’s Canadian GP result was Red Bull’s worst nightmare after two-year extension

Sergio Perez's dismal weekend in Montreal might've raised eyebrows over Red Bull's decision to extend his contract.

Sergio Perez’s Canadian GP result was Red Bull’s worst nightmare after two-year extension

Sergio Perez and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)

Red Bull Racing renewed Sergio Perez‘s contract for the next two seasons. The Mexican driver has raced for the Austrian team since 2021 and played the ideal role of a second driver to Max Verstappen. However, as rivals catch up with Milton Keynes, Perez’s Canadian GP could be ringing alarm bells within the team.

Sergio Perez was once again eliminated in Q1 during Qualifying last weekend. Moreover, a disastrous race witnessed Checo drive back to the pits with a broken rear wing. As such, the 34-year-old could bring no points to the team while Max Verstappen went on to claim an incredible victory in Montreal.

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Red Bull team boss Christian Horner put his faith in Perez to improve after this dismal weekend. Moreover, Verstappen claimed that the team could afford such a result since he won the race. However, it is clear that Sergio Perez’s Canadian GP result was Red Bull’s worst nightmare after handing him a two-year extension.

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Red Bull cannot match rivals if Sergio Perez fails to improve

Red Bull no longer has the pace to dominate the grid like the past two seasons. the Austrian team has already lost three races this season. Christian Horner believes that this was due to the inevitable convergence on the grid. At this moment, Red Bull needs Sergio Perez to match Verstappen more than ever.

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

Max Verstappen might have a few difficult races, such as his DNF at the Australian GP. On such occasions, Milton Keynes needs Sergio Perez’s to limit damage for the team and fight for race victory. This would allow Red Bull to take points away from Verstappen’s rivals in the championship.

Unfortunately, it seems that Sergio Perez doesn’t have the pace to fulfill this role. Red Bull’s main reason for Checo’s extension might’ve been his no-conflict relationship with Verstappen. However, this could cost the team heavily if rivals consistently challenge for victories.

Sergio Perez has a 1+1 deal with Red Bull. As such, it will be on Christian Horner to take up the option on Checo for 2026 based on his performance in 2025. This would allow Milton Keynes to find a driver capable of consistently fighting for wins if Perez fails to match expectations next season. Thus, all is not lost for Red Bull. However, the Mexican driver needs to deliver if he wants to secure his long-term future at the pinnacle of motorsport.

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