Max Verstappen has expressed his support for Sergio Perez to remain his teammate at Red Bull Racing in 2025. Despite Perez’s struggles in the 2024 season, Verstappen praised his teammate’s character, saying it’s “very rare to have a teammate like him” in Formula 1.
Verstappen acknowledged that Perez had a tough season, but emphasized his value as a teammate. “He’s a great guy. Honestly, it’s very rare that you have a teammate like him. He has always been very good and just a nice guy, to be honest”.
The Dutch driver’s endorsement comes amidst speculation about Perez’s future with Red Bull. Perez’s form dipped significantly after a strong start to the season, leading to rumors about his potential replacement. Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda have been mentioned as possible contenders for the seat.
However, Verstappen’s comments suggest he values his partnership with Perez. “I always worked really well with Checo [Sergio Perez],” he said. This public backing may influence Red Bull’s decision on Perez’s future.
The team’s leadership met recently to discuss their 2025 lineup, but no official announcement has been made. Verstappen’s comments may provide a boost to Perez’s chances of retaining his seat.¹ ²
What’s Next for Red Bull?
1. *Decision Time*: Red Bull will soon announce their 2025 driver lineup, potentially resolving Perez’s uncertain future.
2. *Pre-Season Prep*: The team will focus on preparing for the new season, with Verstappen aiming to defend his championship title.
3. *Competition Ahead*: The 2025 season promises to be highly competitive, with McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes expected to challenge Red Bull’s dominance.