Red Bull has reportedly been warned that Max Verstappen “wants a new teammate” amid a growing rift between the Dutchman and Sergio Perez.
Perez closed the gap in the title race to just six points in Azerbaijan after securing victory in the Sprint race and the Grand Prix.
Putting the pressure on Verstappen, Perez could take the lead in the Drivers’ Standings for the first time in his career as he starts the Miami Grand Prix in pole position, while the Dutchman lines up in P9.
Verstappen is thought to be increasingly frustrated as his quest for a third consecutive world championship looks at risk, with Perez putting in a strong string of performances.
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While Red Bull team principal Christian Horner isn’t fazed by the top tier performances by both drivers, calling it a “luxury problem,” former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher believes Verstappen wants a new teammate.
“It’s difficult, and from my point of view it’s clear that the Verstappen’s side wants a new team-mate,” Schumacher said.
“I hear these rumours everywhere. I see it as a problem that Perez knows – his time at Red Bull Racing will expire.
“He’s fighting for his chance to play up front, to win, to have a say in the title.
“It is like this, the team-mate is always the biggest competitor. And who knows what possibilities there will be later.
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“You can see from Lewis Hamilton how fast it goes. That’s why Sergio is now becoming more selfish and as far as selfishness goes, Max Verstappen can’t complain.”
Schumacher believes that Red Bull has a number of options to bring in as Verstappen’s partner should they choose to replace Perez.
Yuki Tsunoda and Daniel Ricciardo have been floated as potential replacements, with younger drivers also on the cars if they choose to end the Mexican’s time at the team.