After four seasons of highs, lows, and unforgettable moments, Sergio Perez and Red Bull Racing have officially parted ways. The Mexican driver, affectionately known as “Checo” by fans around the globe, leaves the team that he helped to two Constructors’ Championships and secured his most successful years in Formula 1.
The announcement signals the end of a partnership that began in 2021. Perez was brought in to bolster Red Bull’s championship bid against Mercedes. While his time with the team saw many accomplishments, recent struggles in form ultimately led to both sides opting for a change.
From Contract Extension to Departure
Perez was set to stay after a strong start to 2024, especially given that the 34-year-old driver had signed a two-year contract extension with Red Bull earlier in the season. The deal set to run through 2026. A significant dip in performance this year forced the team to reevaluate its long-term plans.
Red Bull reportedly offered Perez an ambassadorial role to keep him within the organization. It seems Perez will have that opportunity along with the chance to explore new racing opportunities in 2025. Although that will have to be outside of Formula 1 for now.
A Legacy of Success at Red Bull
Perez enjoyed four seasons at Red Bull Racing. There he achieved a number of career milestones:
- Wins: 5 victories, including his most recent in Baku in 2023.
- Poles: 3 pole positions, adding to Red Bull’s dominant qualifying record.
- Podiums: 39 total career podiums, many of which came during his time with the team.
- Championship Results: Fourth place in 2021, third in 2022, and a runner-up finish in 2023 behind teammate Max Verstappen.
Perez was instrumental in Red Bull’s back-to-back Constructors’ Championships in 2022 and 2023. The veteran provided the consistency needed to fend off rival teams like Ferrari and Mercedes.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner reflected on Perez’s contributions, stating:
“I would like to thank Checo for all he has done for Oracle Red Bull Racing over the past four seasons.” — “From the moment he joined in 2021 he proved himself to be an extraordinary team player, helping us to two constructors’ titles and to our first one-two finish in the drivers’ championship.” — “While Checo will not race for the team next season, he will always be an extremely popular team member and a treasured part of our history. Thank you, Checo.”
What’s Next for Checo?
Red Bull boss Horner stated Perez will remain affiliated with the team by performing show runs. While Perez’s next destination being main driver is unclear, rumors have already begun swirling. Formula 1’s agreement in principle with General Motors to introduce a Cadillac team in 2026 could provide a perfect opportunity for Perez to return to the grid. Given his immense popularity in North America, he could become a marquee signing for the new team.
For now, however, a year out of Formula 1 seems likely. Perez may explore other racing series, such as the World Endurance Championship, Formula E, or IndyCar, as he waits for new opportunities to open up. His reputation as a talented driver with proven racecraft ensures that his name will remain prominent in the driver market for years to come.
An Emotional Goodbye
The announcement of Perez’s departure has been met with an outpouring of support from fans, especially in his home country of Mexico. Checo has long been a symbol of pride for Mexican motorsport, inspiring a new generation of fans and drivers.
On social media, Perez shared his gratitude for the support he received during his time at Red Bull:
“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,”
“Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience and I’ll always cherish the successes we achieved together. We broke records, reached remarkable milestones, and I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people along the way.”
A New Chapter for Red Bull and Perez
For Red Bull, Perez’s departure opens the door for the team to explore new driver pairings. Speculation is everywhere about who will join Max Verstappen in 2025, with names like Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson being floated as potential candidates.
For Perez, the door to Formula 1 may have closed for now, but his career is far from over. With six career wins, 39 podiums, and a legion of devoted fans, Checo’s legacy in motorsport is already cemented—and his story is far from finished.
As the curtain falls on this chapter of Perez’s career, one thing is certain: wherever he goes next, the world will be watching.
