Sergio Perez Leaves Red Bull After Season Of Struggles
Red Bull announced Wednesday that under-pressure Mexican driver Sergio Perez has departed the Formula One outfit after four seasons with Liam Lawson tipped to become world champion Max Verstappen's new teammate. Perez, 34, joined Red Bull in 2021 and helped the team earn two constructors' titles and completed a drivers' standings one-two with four-time world champion Verstappen in 2023. He won five Grands Prix over 90 starts in Red Bull colours, including a victory at the Monaco GP and a double in Azerbaijan.
During the 2024 season, Perez and Red Bull signed a contract extension, tying the pair together until 2026.
However, the Guadalajara-native's form dropped drastically after that deal and he picked up just nine points from his final eight race weekends.
This dip in form led to rumours about his future in the team.
He came eighth in the drivers' standings as Red Bull surrendered their team title to McLaren with a third-placed finish.
'Unforgettable experience'
Perez was adamant during his difficult period that he would stay with the team for next season but he will now part ways with Red Bull with immediate effect.
"I'm incredibly grateful for the past four years with Red Bull Racing and for the opportunity to race with such an amazing team," Perez said.
"Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience and I'll always cherish the successes we achieved together."
The veteran will not have a seat on the grid next season, but it remains to be seen whether he will sign a deal elsewhere for 2026.
"A special thank you to the fans around the world, and especially to the Mexican fans for your unwavering support every day. We'll meet again soon. And remember... Never give up," Perez added.
Verstappen hailed his