In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the world of Formula 1, multiple sources have revealed to ESPN that Sergio Perez is set to make an early exit from the Red Bull racing team before the conclusion of the 2024 season. The Mexican driver, who has been with the team since 2021, is currently in negotiations regarding his future role within the Red Bull organization.
Perez’s Options: Ambassador or Clean Break?
As the dust settles from the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Perez finds himself at a crossroads. Sources indicate that he is weighing two options: remaining with Red Bull as an ambassador in 2025 or severing ties with the company entirely. The ambassadorial role would involve marketing appearances and show runs, a continuation of the two-year contract extension Perez signed with the team in May of this year.
Red Bull’s unique contract structure binds drivers to the company rather than a specific team, adding an extra layer of complexity to Perez’s decision-making process. Insiders suggest that an announcement regarding his choice is expected to be made this week, although it remains unclear whether Red Bull has imposed a deadline for him to make the call.
Liam Lawson: The Rising Star Set to Replace Perez
As the Formula 1 world eagerly awaits news of Perez’s future, sources have confided in ESPN that Red Bull has already settled on his replacement: the young and talented Liam Lawson. The New Zealander, who has impressed during his brief stints with the junior RB team in 2023 and 2024, is poised to make the leap to the main team with just 11 races under his belt.
“Liam has shown incredible potential and maturity in his performances with the junior team,” a source close to the situation revealed. “Red Bull believes he has what it takes to step up and fill the void left by Perez’s departure.”
The Ripple Effect: Hadjar’s Promotion and Tsunoda’s Longevity
Lawson’s promotion is set to trigger a domino effect within the Red Bull driver lineup. Formula 2 runner-up Isack Hadjar is expected to slide into Lawson’s vacated seat alongside Yuki Tsunoda, who is on track to secure an impressive fifth consecutive season with the company’s junior team.
Perez’s Uncertain Future Beyond Red Bull
As the racing world eagerly awaits Perez’s decision, speculation is rife about his future beyond the Red Bull organization. With all 20 seats across the 10 Formula 1 teams already filled for the 2025 season, it appears unlikely that the Mexican driver will find a place on the grid next year, regardless of whether he opts for the ambassadorial role or a clean break from Red Bull.
However, a glimmer of hope may lie on the horizon. General Motors’ incoming Cadillac team, which has an agreement in principle to join the Formula 1 grid as an 11th squad in 2026, could potentially offer Perez a route back into the sport. The American automotive giant’s entry into the world of Formula 1 has been met with great excitement and anticipation, and the prospect of Perez spearheading their efforts is an intriguing one.
The Waiting Game Begins
As the Formula 1 community holds its collective breath, all eyes are on Sergio Perez and his impending decision. Will he choose to remain with Red Bull as an ambassador, or will he opt for a clean break and explore new opportunities beyond the team that has been his home for the past four seasons?
One thing is certain: the coming days will be filled with intense speculation and analysis as fans, pundits, and insiders alike attempt to read the tea leaves and divine the future of one of Formula 1’s most popular and successful drivers. The Sergio Perez saga is far from over, and the racing world waits with bated breath to discover the next chapter in this gripping tale.
