Sergio Perez’s position at Red Bull has come under scrutiny following several disappointing performances, and Fernando Alonso’s agent has visited with Christian Horner.
Despite speaking with the veteran Spaniard’s representation, Red Bull will not consider replacing Sergio Perez with Fernando Alonso.
Following a string of disappointing performances, there has been much speculation over Perez’s future at Red Bull. The 33-year-old is signed until the conclusion of the 2024 season, but he has failed to compete with his powerful teammate Max Verstappen.
AlphaTauri trio Daniel Ricciardo, Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson offer Red Bull in-house alternatives, while McLaren star Lando Norris and Williams’ Alex Albon have also been touted as replacements for Perez. Meanwhile, a meeting between Alonso’s agent, Flavio Briatore, and Red Bull team principal Christian Horner in Qatar sparked suggestions the 42-year-old Aston Martin driver could be in the frame
The AlphaTauri trio Red Bull’s in-house options include Daniel Ricciardo, Yuki Tsunoda, and Liam Lawson, while McLaren’s Lando Norris and Williams’ Alex Albon have also been mentioned as potential replacements for Perez. Meanwhile, a meeting in Qatar between Alonso’s agent, Flavio Briatore, and Red Bull team principal Christian Horner fueled speculation that the 42-year-old Aston Martin driver could be involved.
Ricciardo, who is slated to return for sister team AlphaTauri this weekend, is widely seen as the most likely successor for Perez if Red Bull makes the switch. However, in an exclusive interview with Mirror Sport, Horner stated that the squad is focused on assisting Perez in finishing second this season after Verstappen won another title. Despite his difficulties, he is still 30 points ahead of third-placed Lewis Hamilton.
“It’s something that we’ve not achieved before and it will be something to top off what we believe has been our most successful ever car,” Horner said in a statement. “We’re doing everything we can to help Checo find the form we know he’s capable of and demonstrated earlier this year.”
We are optimistic that he will recapture the form that he demonstrated in some amazing races, such as those in Azerbaijan and Saudi Arabia. Even as recently as Monza, he drove a tremendous race and finished second… people have short memory in this business, and you’re only as good as your last race in many ways.”
When asked if he had considered firing Perez, Horner was clear. “It’s not something that we have discussed or even contemplated,” he added. “Checo is our driver, and we want to help him in any way we can.”
“We believe he can finish second in the championship, but he is up against tough competitors with a lot of racing left.” Checo was our choice.
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