As Sergio Perez’s Red Bull contract draws closer to its end next season, many drivers are keeping a close eye on the opportunity to join the reigning champions. However, with the likes of Daniel Ricciardo eyeing a comeback and Yuki Tsunoda being rumored for a promotion, the competition for Perez’s seat is sure to be intense
The 33-year-old has contributed a great deal to the team, especially within his role as Max Verstappen’s loyal wingman in securing two titles. However, despite these contributions, loyalty is a fallacy in F1. As Christian Horner aptly stated in the latest season of Drive to Survive, the harsh reality of F1 dictates that decisions are made with the head, not the heart.
However, Perez’s father refuses to believe in the cutthroat dystopia of F1. Instead, he makes a rather resounding statement about his son’s future within the sport, as the sharks begin circling the water.
No room for Daniel Ricciardo at Red Bull, Sergio Perez holds tight
Antonio Perez Garibay acknowledged that his son is in the hot seat, and states that it will remain that way. “Checo is doing his job excellently and will be in F1 for the next 10 years.”
Recalling Perez being unfairly axed from Racing Point as a source of motivation, he also thanks Red Bull for giving Perez a chance. “Ater everything lost to what was found, we have a blessing as Checo didn’t have a job two years ago before this new stage was opened by Red Bull.”
Further, the proud dad also states that Perez has now become “one of the great ambassadors of any brand worldwide.” Some brilliant marketing for a man who speaks volumes on the track, Garibay still credits all these blessings to Red Bull. “What he did before were great achievements but nothing compared to the support of Red Bull, being in the best team in the world puts you in the eyes of the world.”
Thus, it looks like Perez is on a 10-year plan. Within a decade, the driver would be a solid 43 years old. And if Fernando Alonso has taught us anything this season, it’s to throw that number out the window. However, although Perez has delivered some brilliant performances, there’s just one issue.
Cracks are already showing in Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez’s relationship. The problem lies in Red Bull giving the upper hand to the Dutchman who comes with two titles on a silver plate; this isn’t going to change. So, by the likes of it, Perez might end up doing what Nico Rosberg did in the same situation with Lewis Hamilton.
Crawling out of the shadows, maybe there will be a season where Perez somehow outshines Verstappen, and then, he can retire with a title to his name. Surely, playing wingman isn’t Perez’s ultimate dream, so it’s only a matter of waiting and watching. Will Perez last 10 years beside Verstappen or will there come a time to bring in someone more harmless, say, Daniel Ricciardo?
