The Red Bull driver situation explained
The Formula 1 paddock is buzzing with news that Sergio Perez and Red Bull Racing have unsurprisingly decided to part ways after four seasons together. The announcement follows a challenging (at best) 2024 campaign for the Mexican driver, marking the end of an era for the team that has dominated F1 in recent years. Red Bull has confirmed that New Zealander Liam Lawson will take Perez's place alongside four-time world champion Max Verstappen, marking a significant change in the team’s structure as they aim to reclaim their position at the top of the Constructors' Championship.
Sergio Perez joined Red Bull in 2021 following his stunning last-to-first drive in Sakhir 2020. He brought experience and sponsorship to the team, delivering strong results, including five race wins, all on-street circuits, and multiple podium finishes. Perez played a key role in securing two Constructors' Championships for the team, the championship wins for teammate Verstappen in 2021, and was instrumental in their historic 1-2 finish in the Drivers' Championship in 2022. However, his 2024 season proved to be a significant challenge.
Struggling to adapt to the RB20 and underperforming relative to teammate Verstappen, Perez dropped to eighth in the Drivers' Championship standings. Despite signing a contract extension earlier in the year that was set to keep him with the team until the end of 2026, the performance gap and Red Bull's unexpected vulnerability in the championship ultimately led to discussions about an early exit.
In an Instagram post, Perez expressed his gratitude to his team and fans: “Thank you for these four years Red Bull racing. I wish you the best.” In a formal press release, he elaborated: “Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience. We broke records and achieved remarkable milestones together. A special thank you to the fans, especially my Mexican supporters, for your unwavering support. We’ll meet again soon. And remember…Never give up.”
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner praised Perez’s contributions: “From the moment he joined in 2021, he proved himself to be an extraordinary team player. While Checo will not race for the team next season, he will always be a treasured part of our history. Thank you, Checo.”
Just a day after Perez’s departure, Red Bull announced that Liam Lawson would step up to partner reigning champion Max Verstappen in 2025. Despite not having completed a full F1 season, Lawson seems to have impressed the team with his technical feedback, adaptability, and competitive spirit during his stints with the Racing Bulls sister team in 2023 and 2024.
Lawson’s first stint in F1 came as a substitute for the injured Daniel Ricciardo in 2023, where he scored points in Singapore. His performances in the latter half of 2024 further solidified his reputation as a driver capable of handling high-pressure situations. Notably, his defensive driving against Fernando Alonso at the United States Grand Prix demonstrated his racecraft and determination, traits that Red Bull values in its drivers.
Red Bull team boss Christian Horner stated: “Liam’s performances have shown that he’s not only capable of delivering strong results but also has the racer’s mindset to thrive in Formula 1. Racing alongside Max Verstappen is a daunting task, but I’m confident Liam will rise to the challenge.”
Lawson expressed his excitement about the promotion: “To be announced as an Oracle Red Bull Racing driver is a lifelong dream for me. I’m super excited to work alongside Max and learn from a world champion. This is a huge step, and I can’t wait to get started.”
With Lawson’s promotion to Red Bull, Isack Hadjar has been confirmed as his replacement at the Racing Bulls team. The 2024 Formula 2 runner-up has shown exceptional promise, earning his spot alongside Yuki Tsunoda for the 2025 season.
Hadjar acknowledged the magnitude of the opportunity: “Stepping into Formula 1 is the dream I’ve worked toward my entire life. Partnering with Yuki, who has been through the Red Bull junior program like me, is an honor. I’m ready to learn and deliver for the team.”
Racing Bulls team principal Laurent Mekies expressed confidence in the new lineup: “Isack brings a fresh dynamic to the team. His journey through the junior ranks has been outstanding, and we’re excited to see him grow alongside Yuki in 2025.”
With no available seats for 2025, Perez faces a likely exit from the sport after 14 consecutive seasons in Formula 1. While his next step remains uncertain, his career highlights, including six Grand Prix victories and 39 podiums, cement his legacy as the most accomplished Mexican Grand Prix driver of all time.
The changes mark a significant shift for Red Bull as it seeks to rejuvenate its lineup and reclaim dominance in Formula 1. Promoting Lawson aligns with Red Bull’s tradition of nurturing talent from within its junior program, a pathway that has produced champions like Sebastian Vettel and Verstappen. For fans, the 2025 season promises intrigue as Lawson faces the daunting challenge of competing alongside one of the sport’s greatest drivers. Meanwhile, Hadjar’s debut adds another layer of excitement, showcasing the next generation of talent.
As Red Bull embarks on this new chapter, the team’s decisions underscore its commitment to fostering young talent while maintaining its competitive edge. The departures and arrivals may signal the end of one era, but they also herald the beginning of another, filled with possibilities and challenges on the road ahead.
