In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 paddock, Sergio Pérez and Red Bull Racing have agreed to part ways, cutting short the Mexican driver’s tenure with the championship-winning team. The unexpected announcement comes on the heels of a challenging season for Pérez, whose struggles on track ultimately cost Red Bull the constructors’ title.
As the racing world grapples with this seismic shift, all eyes are now turning to the team’s reserve driver, Liam Lawson. The young New Zealander, who has been waiting in the wings, is expected to be officially confirmed as Pérez’s replacement in the coming days, ushering in a new era for Red Bull.
The End of an Era
Pérez, affectionately known as “Checo” to his legions of fans, had become a fixture at Red Bull since joining the team in 2021. His contributions were instrumental in helping the squad secure back-to-back constructors’ championships in 2021 and 2022. However, the 2024 season proved to be a turning point, as Pérez struggled to match the pace of his dominant teammate, Max Verstappen.
Despite signing a two-year contract extension earlier this year, Pérez’s form took a nosedive, prompting Red Bull to re-evaluate their driver lineup. Negotiations between the two parties reached a crescendo during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend, culminating in the decision to part ways.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the past four years with Oracle Red Bull Racing and for the opportunity to race with such an amazing team,” Pérez reflected in a statement. “Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience and I’ll always cherish the successes we achieved together.”
The Lawson Era Begins
As one door closes, another opens for Liam Lawson. The 21-year-old has been patiently biding his time as Red Bull’s reserve driver, impressing in his limited opportunities to test the car. Now, he stands on the cusp of a full-time race seat with one of Formula 1’s most prestigious teams.
Lawson’s promotion marks a significant milestone for New Zealand motorsport, as he becomes the first Kiwi to race in Formula 1 since Brendon Hartley’s brief stint with Toro Rosso in 2018. His ascension to the Red Bull seat is a testament to the team’s faith in their young driver program and their willingness to take bold risks.
“Liam has shown incredible potential and maturity in his role as our reserve driver,” noted team principal Christian Horner. “We believe he has the talent and the temperament to succeed at the highest level, and we’re excited to see what he can achieve alongside Max [Verstappen] next season.”
The Road Ahead
For Pérez, the future is uncertain. With no available seats in Formula 1 for the 2025 season, the Mexican driver may be forced to explore opportunities in other racing series. Some have suggested that he could be a prime candidate for Cadillac’s forthcoming Formula 1 team, set to enter the sport in 2026, given his immense popularity in the North American market.
Meanwhile, Red Bull will be focused on ensuring a smooth transition for Lawson as they set their sights on reclaiming the constructors’ crown in 2025. The team will undoubtedly face intense scrutiny as they navigate this new chapter, but if history has taught us anything, it’s that Red Bull thrives in the face of adversity.
As the Formula 1 world continues to process this shocking development, one thing is certain: the 2025 season promises to be a fascinating chapter in the sport’s storied history. With fresh faces, renewed rivalries, and the ever-present pursuit of glory, the stage is set for an unforgettable year of racing.
